This video gives us a look at some short line and regional railroads in the Chicago area.  Specifically, we see action on the following railroads:

Elgin, Joliet, & Eastern (“the J”)

Chicago Rail Link

Chicago Central & Pacific

Chicago Terminal

Indiana Rail Road.

This video could have been so much better if it had included maps.  We visit locations all around the outskirts of Chicago but we don’t get a feel for where we really are in relation to the heart of the city or in relation to the other locations that are visited in this video.  It could have all been made very clear by quick references to maps as the locations changed.

Almost half of the viewing time of this video is devoted to the Elgin Joliet & Eastern and then we spend several minutes watching Chicago Rail Link action.  Less time is spent with Chicago Central & Pacific and Indiana Rail Road.

Some of the best of this video is saved for last when we visit Chicago Terminal.  We get to see some street running as cars are dropped off and picked up at industries on Chicago’s north side.  The trains have to wait as cars and trucks are moved out of the way.

Overall this is a pretty good video if the viewer has an interest in railroading in the Chicago area.