It's an excellent question, and I know lots of influential people used to monitor this board. Or did so when it was active, it's gone into some decay since, but the board technology itself is still up and very alive for anyone to use. Electrification of Metra is as good a topic/public interest project as any :-)

Regarding your question, I'd love to hear an opinion from a Chicago Transportation Planner / Engineer who would be able to answer this question.. I just don't know.