I wouldn't imagine children would pay full price. Most trains i have ridden have kids under 17 usually 1/2 price. Metra(different i know) has a deal where one adult ticket gets you 3 kids tickets free. As well as weekend passes, where you ride all weekend for $7. I can see how it would be a problem during the week, but if you were going to madison for the weekend, it would be a huge savings($7 for the whole family, both ways). Now obviously, this is all hypothetical, but i would imagine this train service would have similar price deals. And if you are going to be using it for work, there are usually rail passes, which offer discounts as well. You obviously have a lot more flexibility with a car, but unless by working late you mean, 11:30pm or so, i can't see these trains making a huge difference(i imagine them running every 1/2 hour or so). Let's say i have to work till 8pm. The train leaves at 8:45, i would probably just work till 8:30 and get to the train just fine. To some, yes. To others, no. The rail isn't going to be for everyone. If you are the type of person who likes to rush home and do what you need to do ASAP, then you obviously want to take a car. I personally, wouldn't mind relaxing a little bit on a train and unwinding before i get home. Same thing in the morning.