Explore Northwest Indiana

Northwest Indiana, often considered the “Crossroads of America,” offers a dynamic and evolving transportation network that connects residents, businesses, and visitors to the greater Midwest and beyond. Whether traveling by road, rail, air, or water, this region provides diverse and convenient options that are critical to its economic growth and vibrant community life.

Highways: Roadways to Everywhere

Northwest Indiana boasts a strategic location with access to major highways like Interstate 80/94, I-90 (Indiana Toll Road), and I-65. These corridors not only connect the region directly to Chicago but also serve as critical routes for cross-country travel and freight transport. The “Borman Expressway” (I-80/94) is one of the busiest stretches of interstate in the nation, illustrating the area’s importance in national logistics.

Additionally, U.S. Routes 30, 41, and 231 and a web of well-maintained state roads ensure efficient travel within local communities such as Gary, Hammond, Valparaiso, and Michigan City.

Rail: A Growing Commuter Lifeline

Rail transportation has long been a cornerstone of Northwest Indiana’s infrastructure. The South Shore Line, operated by the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD), is one of the last remaining interurban railroads in the country. It provides a direct link from South Bend to downtown Chicago, making it an essential service for commuters and travelers alike.

Expansion projects currently underway, such as the West Lake Corridor extension and the South Shore Double Track project, promise to reduce travel times, increase train frequency, and promote economic development along the rail corridors.

Freight rail is also a major player. Class I railroads like Norfolk Southern and CSX operate significant yards and lines through the region, connecting industries to national and global markets.

Air: Gateway to the Skies

While Chicago’s major airports — O’Hare and Midway — are easily accessible to Northwest Indiana residents, the region is also home to Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY). With a newly expanded runway and ongoing infrastructure improvements, GYY is growing its role in passenger service, private aviation, and cargo operations.

Several smaller regional airports, such as Porter County Regional Airport and Michigan City Municipal Airport, further support private, corporate, and emergency aviation needs.

Waterways: The Lake Michigan Advantage

Northwest Indiana’s shoreline along Lake Michigan is a tremendous transportation asset. The Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor, one of the largest inland ports in the country, handles millions of tons of cargo annually, including steel, bulk goods, and heavy machinery. Its multimodal connections—integrating water, rail, and road transport—make it a vital economic engine not only for Indiana but for the entire Midwest.

The region’s marinas and harbors also support recreational boating, ferry services, and tourism, enhancing quality of life and economic diversity.

Public Transit and Local Mobility

Efforts to expand local transportation options continue. Services like GPTC (Gary Public Transportation Corporation) provide bus routes across key urban areas, while regional partnerships aim to enhance connectivity through on-demand transit, bike-share programs, and expanded pedestrian pathways.

In addition, ride-sharing services and future-oriented plans, such as regional mobility hubs and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, point to a transportation network that is becoming more sustainable and inclusive.

Conclusion

Northwest Indiana’s transportation system is a reflection of its past as a steel and shipping powerhouse and its future as a diversified, accessible, and sustainable region. Investments in highways, rail, airports, and waterways not only support economic vitality but also enrich the daily lives of residents. As the region continues to grow and evolve, transportation will remain a key pillar in connecting Northwest Indiana to the nation—and the world.