In mid-2000s, the population and commercial growth in Lake and Porter counties in Northwest Indiana was outstripping projections. The Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District determined that if the growth continued, it would be necessary to add another branch to the South Shore Line commuter rail.
During the mid-2000s, the populations and commercial activities in Lake and Porter counties in Northwest Indiana surpassed expectations. Consequently, the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District assessed that additional service on the South Shore Line commuter rail would be required if growth continued.