Metra, PATCO Debut America 250 Commemorative Trains

As communities across the U.S. prepare to celebrate the nation’s 250^th anniversary, two public transit agencies have unveiled commemorative train designs that recognize both America’s history and rail’s enduring role in connecting people and places.

Just ahead of the July 4 holiday, Metra in Chicago and the Port Authority Transit Corporation (PATCO) in the Philadelphia-Camden region introduced specially wrapped trains honoring America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the 250^th Anniversary of the United States.

Metra’s tribute features one of its newly remanufactured SD70-MACH locomotives, the 26^th of 42 locomotives being rebuilt by Progress Rail from former freight service into modern commuter locomotives. The America 250 locomotive was painted using a design created by Metra Senior Graphic Designer Falecia Woods in collaboration with the agency’s operations team.

“We are proud to present this specially painted locomotive as a gift to the people of the Chicago region, Illinois, and the United States,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Jim Derwinski. “This locomotive also commemorates the important role that railroads played in the expansion and development of our nation.”

Derwinski noted that the locomotive represents more than transportation, serving as a reminder of the communities and workers that have helped build the country through generations of rail service.

PATCO’s two-car commemorative train features artwork that celebrates the shared history of Pennsylvania and New Jersey and the agency’s role connecting the two states across the Delaware River.

One railcar highlights Pennsylvania’s central place in the founding of the U.S., with images including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Benjamin Franklin, the Pennsylvania state seal, the “We the People” Constitution scroll, and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. The companion railcar showcases New Jersey landmarks and history, featuring Washington Crossing the Delaware, the Battleship New Jersey, Camden City Hall, a historic PATCO railcar, Jersey Shore imagery, and a map illustrating the Delaware River communities PATCO serves.

“For nearly 60 years, PATCO has connected people, communities, and opportunities on both sides of the Delaware River,” said General Manager John Rink. “As our nation celebrates its 250^th Anniversary, this commemorative train honors the pivotal role Pennsylvania and New Jersey played in America’s founding while recognizing the connections that continue to bring our region together today.”

The commemorative trains underscore a theme that resonates throughout the America 250 celebration: the importance of transportation in shaping the nation’s past while continuing to support its future.