Historic Dinky Could Return as High-Speed Rail Along Great River Road

GRAFTON – A piece of Riverbend history may soon be making a comeback — at speeds no one saw coming.

Local tourism officials confirmed this week that discussions are underway to revive a modern version of the historic “Dinky,” the small railbus that once carried passengers between Alton and Grafton before the Great River Road was built.

But unlike the original, this version wouldn’t be slow.

Early planning documents describe a high-speed railbus system designed to dramatically reduce travel time along the bluff corridor while still offering scenic views of the Mississippi River.

“The original Dinky was about the journey,” one organizer said. “This version is about the journey… just much, much faster.”

The original Dinky, which operated in the early-to-mid 1900s, was a compact rail vehicle that resembled a bus and made multiple stops in towns like Elsah and Chautauqua. The proposed version would keep that recognizable shape, but feature a redesigned body with panoramic windows and updated engineering.

Officials say the system is being explored with speeds that could reach up to 180 miles per hour in designated straightaway sections, though planners emphasized that speeds would be reduced significantly near curves, towns, and scenic overlooks.

Project Led by Chicago-Based Firm

The proposal is being developed in partnership with Midwest Transit Innovations, a Chicago-based firm specializing in adaptive rail concepts and tourism-focused transit systems.

According to project materials, the company has been exploring ways to repurpose historic transit ideas using modern engineering.

“We look for opportunities where history and infrastructure overlap,” said Daniel Kessler, project director for Midwest Transit Innovations. “The Dinky is a perfect example — it’s recognizable, it’s local, and it lends itself to reinvention.”

Kessler said the Riverbend corridor presents a unique opportunity.

“You have scenery, tourism, and a defined route,” he said. “That combination is rare.”

Designed for Tourism — and Speed

Early concepts call for a sleek, orange railcar inspired by the original design, but updated with modern materials, stabilized suspension, and advanced braking systems.

Despite the potential speed, planners say the experience would still highlight the River Road’s natural beauty.

“The goal is to give people the option,” one planner said. “You can take the scenic ride… or you can be in Grafton before you finish your coffee.”

Passengers could choose between multiple ride types, including a standard scenic route and a limited-stop “express run.”

Environmental Perspective

“The Mississippi River bluff system is a unique and sensitive environment,” said Dr. Andrew Keller, a researcher with the University of Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences. “Projects in this type of setting typically require detailed review to understand potential impacts.”

Dr. Keller noted that modern engineering can help reduce disruption.

“With proper planning, design, and monitoring, it’s possible to balance access and preservation,” he said.

Project organizers say environmental considerations would be part of any formal proposal.

“We expect that to be part of the process,” Kessler said. “It’s an important piece of moving something like this forward.”

Ticket Pricing and Membership Options

While final pricing has not been officially approved, early planning documents outline a tiered ticket system designed for both visitors and local riders.

Proposed pricing includes:

• One-Way Ride (Alton to Grafton or Grafton to Alton): $12 for adults, $8 for children
• Round Trip Ride: $20 for adults, $14 for children
• Express High-Speed Pass (limited stops): $18 one-way
• Sunset / Fall Foliage Specialty Rides: $28 per person

Organizers say the goal is to keep pricing accessible while offering a premium experience during peak tourism times.

In addition to single-ride tickets, officials are also considering a membership program aimed at frequent riders and local residents.

The proposed “Dinky Pass” membership would include:

• Unlimited rides during standard operating hours
• Access to express high-speed routes
• Priority boarding on weekends
• Discounted tickets for guests
• Early access to seasonal rides and special events

Preliminary pricing for the membership is expected to fall around $79 per year for individuals or $129 for a family pass, though those numbers could change as plans develop.

Officials also noted that bikes may be allowed onboard for a small additional fee, giving riders the option to travel one way and return along the Great River Road trail system.

Residents have reported seeing survey markers and light equipment activity along portions of the bluff line in recent weeks, though officials have not confirmed exact locations for the proposed route.

A public information meeting is expected to be held at the Elsah Township Building later this month, where residents will have an opportunity to learn more about the concept and provide feedback.

While still in early stages, organizers say the goal would be to have at least a limited demonstration route ready as early as next year, pending approvals and funding.

At press time, one internal document suggested the system could reduce travel time between Alton and Grafton to “under two minutes in optimal conditions.”

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