Lawrence to Bryn Mawr Red Line Modernization Project breaks ground

As part of the Red and Purple Line Modernization Project, the CTA is rebuilding 100-year-old stations and tracks in order to develop completely accessible stations. The work is now underway between Lawrence and Bryn Mawr.

“The CTA is what ties our city together and has long connected our residents to jobs, education, and opportunity,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “I am grateful for the continued support of our partners at the federal and local level, which allows us to provide our residents with the affordable, accessible, and reliable transportation they deserve.” 

This spring, the CTA starts restoring the 100-year-old Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn, and Bryn Mawr Red Line stations and rail structures. The new stations, which are expected to open by the end of 2024, will be modern, larger, and fully accessible with lifts, larger platforms, and other improved amenities. In addition, the CTA will rebuild the century-old rail infrastructure that connects the four nearby stations, resulting in a smoother, more pleasurable, and more dependable experience.

“CTA customers will see a significant improvement in service with increased accessibility to rail service, less crowding on trains and rail platforms and shorter commute times,” said CTA President Dorval Carter. “The benefits of this project extend beyond riders of the Red Line to Chicago’s neighborhoods and small businesses across the city through training, job and contract opportunities that will be a model for future CTA projects like the Red Line Extension.” 

RPM Phase One work will result in speedier, more comfortable rides for CTA passengers through better service and contemporary station buildings that are entirely accessible to those with impairments. The additional stations are planned to open by the end of 2024, with all RPM Phase One development finished by 2025.

The RPM Phase One Project consists of three primary components:

• Reconstruction of the Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn, and Bryn Mawr Red Line stations into bigger, 100% accessible stations; and replacement of a century-old track structure totalling six track-miles.
• Construction of a new Red-Purple Bypass (due to be completed in 2021), followed by the renovation of the Red and Purple Line track structures between Belmont and Newport/Cornelia (expected completion by the end of 2024).
• Installation of a new signal system on 23 track miles between Howard and Belmont that will increase train throughput and service dependability in the same manner as road traffic lights do.

The Red Line is the CTA’s busiest rail line, offering more than 67 million passengers each year and servicing some of the most densely inhabited communities in the United States. The RPM Program, which will be completed in stages, will restore a 9.6-mile length of Red and Purple Line track structure as well as century-old stations on the North Side. RPM will replace old infrastructure, expand CTA capacity to expand train service as needed, and provide more dependable, pleasant service to consumers. RPM’s next phases have yet to be disclosed and are currently underfunded.