Metra released the final version of a new schedule for the Union Pacific North line between Chicago and Kenosha, Wis., that will take effect on August 22. The schedule is being changed because a major, $185-million project to replace 22 bridges on the line on the north side of Chicago will require trains to use a single track in the construction zone.

The final version made several adjustments from the preliminary version in order to address concerns raised by passengers who communicated with Metra via e-mail or phone call, or in person at three open houses held in Waukegan, Lake Forest and Evanston. Due to the complex nature of the schedule and the operational environment, Metra was not able to accommodate every request.

The schedule changes have been made because currently, trains traveling north and trains traveling south pass each other, or "meet," near the Ravenswood Station in the construction zone. Since there will now be a single track in that area, the schedule has to be adjusted so that they pass each other outside the construction area.