Two projects on the line are aimed at easing travel into and from Chicago.

The special-purpose districts are designated to help fund specific transportation projects.

The Chicago Tribune reports the state, along with northwest Indiana communities, have pledged half the money for the nearly $1 billion project.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said Indiana's work on the toll road and South Shore rail line should be viewed as models for the rest of the country.

The Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District's Board of Trustees list includes new rail cars and rerouting the railroad near South Bend International Airport.

The previous executive director for the group, Nicole Barker, is leaving to be the director of capital investment and implementation for the South Shore Line.

Free westbound rides will be offered all day Sunday and starting at 9:30 a.m. during weekdays next week.