(Michigan City, IN) - The City of Michigan City will attempt to do whatever needs to be done to acquire land for construction of the double track.

Last night, the city council voted to exercise its right to eminent domain.  This paves the way for the city to take unwilling property owners to court and force them to sell their land in the area of Pine and Franklin Streets, in the event property owners continue to resist offers made by the city.

Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District operates the South Shore commuter line that is looking to construct the double track, with the objective of reducing travel times to and from Chicago.  Their President and General Manager, Mike Noland, says it’s critical to have all of the land in place before construction begins next year to avoid potentially expensive delays.

Officials said at least one property owner has been unwilling to sell while another has yet to respond.