Chicago South Shore and South Bend Railroad (NICTD)

Hammond Station

Hammond station was remodeled in 1998 - high level platforms and a new station building were constructed. At the platforms the tracks diverge into a four rail 'Gauntlet' arrangement, allowing passenger trains to pass close to the platform for loading, and freight trains to pass further away.

This was the South Shore Line's first gauntlet station. Additional gauntlet style stations have been built in East Chicago and Hegewisch and are planned (with no target dates set) for Gary Metro Center and Michigan City 11th St.

Track 1 platform and gauntlet track as viewed from the east.

Track 1 platform and gauntlet track as viewed from the west.

Car 309 leads an early afternoon train eastbound on Track 1. Note that the train is using the rails bringing it closest to the platform, stradling one of the rails used for freight and non-stopping trains.

An evening freight train passes the platform on Track 2 using the rails that give it the most separation and allow a faster speed. (My camera's flash froze the train in place in this 2004 photo.)