Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 will roll into West Chicago next week as part of a nationwide tour celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

The locomotive is scheduled to arrive at approximately 5:45 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, before being placed on public display from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, at the Larry S. Provo Union Pacific Center, 335 Spencer St. The train is expected to depart between 8 and 9 a.m. on Thursday, June 4.

Originally built in the 1940s, Big Boy No. 4014 is the largest operating steam locomotive in the world and the only operating locomotive of its kind. The restored engine is traveling across the country as part of Union Pacific’s America 250 tour.

West Chicago Community High School students, parents and staff will also play a role in the event. Volunteers are scheduled to help manage parking in school lots during the locomotive’s visit as part of a Student Council fundraiser.

According to Student Council adviser Candace Fikis, the fundraiser grew out of a practical problem: limited parking near the event site. Student Council members, parents and West Chicago Community High School staff members will help direct traffic and manage parking during the three-day event, while proceeds from parking and beverage sales will support student activities, such as Homecoming and prom.

“The problem for downtown West Chicago is that there is not a lot of parking, which gave us the idea to sell parking spots at the school to help fundraise,” Fikis said.

Fikis expects large crowds based on previous visits by the locomotive.

“The last time the Big Boy came through this area, thousands of people watched it,” Fikis said. “With this being part of the 250th anniversary of the U.S., this could be an even bigger event than in the past.”

Junior Luke Davis, a Student Council member, said he volunteered because the event provides an opportunity to raise money for the organization.

“Student Council pays for everything from Homecoming to little activities thrown by StuCo to prom,” Davis said. “We also saw this as an opportunity to hopefully be able to have a destination prom for the school year of 2028.”

Fellow Student Council member Daniella Scarpace said she is looking forward to spending time with other volunteers while helping support the fundraiser.

“I am most looking forward to being able to spend some time with other Student Council members that I might not normally see over the summer,” Scarpace said. “I am also looking forward to the good weather that is expected for those days.”

Davis admitted he is also looking forward to a break from his busy summer schedule.

“I’ve been working nonstop this summer and, with me taking off for the days that Big Boy is coming into town, I have an opportunity to relax while still helping my club out in the long run,” Davis said. “Something I’m most looking forward to about the Big Boy visit is—hate to say it—but time to tan and chill.”

City officials are preparing for large crowds during the visit. Shuttle service and public parking will be available, and visitors can also take Metra to the event. Organizers are encouraging attendees to plan ahead due to expected traffic congestion in and around downtown West Chicago.

In addition to viewing the locomotive, visitors will be able to take part in activities throughout downtown West Chicago, including live entertainment, a game zone with inflatables and carnival games, museum exhibits, trolley rides, walking tours and food vendors.

The Wilson Avenue railroad bridge will be closed to vehicle traffic beginning at 1 p.m. on June 2 and is expected to reopen on June 4. Pedestrian access will remain available during the closure.