The Ghost Train

Current Status

The Ghost Train is currently not operating due to a lighting and audio issue. The Public Art Committee is aware of the issue and is attempting to work with a contractor who can resolve the issue. There currently is no estimated time the train will be on display again. Check back here for further updates on the status of the Ghost Train.

Overview

The Ghost Train is an artistic sensory experience at the Oak Leaf Trail Bridge and Capitol Drive in Shorewood. It made its inaugural run on October 31, 2016. This first-of-its kind public art installation will enable visitors to travel back in history, imagining the round-trip journey of the 'Twin Cities 400' which was operated by the Chicago & North Western Railway and crossed that same location from 1935-1963. Touted as the fastest passenger train in the world, the Chicago & North Western Railway's '400' routinely covered the 400 miles between Chicago and St. Paul, MN in just under 400 minutes - including its travel through Shorewood along the route of today's Oak Leaf Trail. The Ghost Train is the next phase of an exciting long-term public art vision for Shorewood, which encompasses a partnership between the Public Art Shorewood Committee and the Shorewood Historical Society to make this project happen.

Design & Engineering

The Ghost Train designer is Marty Peck, principal of Creative Lighting Design & Engineering, which is a Germantown-based firm specializing in the expressive use of light in architecture. Through innovative lighting and sound technology, Peck created the allusion of a Ghost Train crossing the bridge twice each evening to recall the schedule, speed and drama of the passing of this historic 400 train. At other times the bridge will have a subtler artistic illumination. Both the Ghost Train and bridge lighting will be a permanent installation.