Metra News Release

News Release

Stony Island, Bryn Mawr station improvements complete

Chicago, Aug. 9 - Metra board member Larry Huggins was joined today by U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. along with Chicago Alderman Leslie Hairston to celebrate completion of two station renovations along the South Chicago Branch of the Metra Electric District.
The renovations are part of a $44 million improvement that covers all eight stations on the electric district's South Chicago Branch.
"For those unfamiliar with these stations, the difference between old and new is striking," Huggins said. "Constructed within the tight space created by the electric district's unique layout, Metra has built beautiful, urban train platforms and brick shelters."
To protect waiting commuters from the elements, the new stations each feature a warming house, windbreaks and a canopy roof over most of the platforms. For their convenience, commuters also will find ticket machines, benches and new lighting and signs. Furthermore, new ramps make the stations fully ADA accessible.
During ceremonies Wednesday at both new stations, Director Huggins thanked Congressman Jackson for his help in providing millions in federal dollars needed to complete the work. Jackson applauded the work that had been done along the electric line.
"I am happy to report that new Metra stations in the South Shore community, like red roses in the garden, are becoming a summer ritual," Jackson said. "It is great to be here again with Metra officials to dedicate yet another new station along the Metra Electric South Chicago line. We've been doing this for years, from South Shore, to Rainbow Beach, to South Chicago."
Metra provides commuter rail service between the Chicago central business district and more than 225 stations located in Northeastern Illinois communities. The Metra system includes 11 routes totaling approximately 500 miles of service territory. Metra operates nearly 700 weekday trains, providing 300,000 passenger trips a day.