Once, Racine Metra Station stood as a testament to Chicago’s evolving transit system. Today Racine Metra Station is a reminder of a bygone era. Racine Metra Station whispers stories of innovation and community resilience.
Racine Metra Station is located at 6314-16 South Racine Avenue in Chicago. It once served as a vital link on the Green Line. The station opened its doors on February 25 1907. It was initially known as Center Street. The name changed when Center Street became Racine Avenue.
Earl Nielson designed Racine Metra Station in the Greek Revival style. The design featured a station building and platforms. These elements have remained largely unchanged since the station’s opening. Racine Metra Station is the only original Englewood station that has not been demolished or rebuilt.
In 1949 the CTA introduced A/B skip-stop service. Racine Metra Station became an “A” station. This meant that trains on the Englewood branch served all stations.
However Racine Metra Station closed on January 9 1994. This closure coincided with the Green Line’s two-year renovation. Unlike other stations Racine Metra Station did not reopen on May 12 1996. The CTA decided to permanently close Racine and five other stations.
The station closings sparked controversy. Community leaders protested claiming that the CTA broke its promise to reopen the stations. They argued that the closures would negatively impact economic development in poorer communities. Despite the protests the CTA chose not to demolish Racine Metra Station.
This decision was influenced by its historic status. An agreement between the CTA and the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency protected the station. Though closed the platforms were used by Racine Shops train yard employees. They used it to board and exit trains until the platform floors were removed in late 2016 to early 2017.
As of December 2022 there was renewed hope for Racine Metra Station. Advocates in Englewood petitioned to reopen the station. A referendum was placed on the ballot for the 2023 Chicago elections. Over 93% of voters supported reopening the station.
The potential reopening of Racine Metra Station has garnered significant support. In a letter to the Chicago Sun-Times CTA President Dorval Carter expressed support for reopening the station. He emphasized the importance of transit improvements as investments in equity. The CTA is working with local and federal officials to secure funding.
In January 2023 the CTA received 2 million to conduct a feasibility study. The study will analyze how a new station could be constructed. It would meet community needs accessibility requirements and historic considerations.
Advocates believe that restoring Racine Metra Station would catalyze new projects in Englewood. Despite its closure Racine Metra Station remains a symbol of hope. It represents the community’s determination to revitalize the area. The reopening of Racine Metra Station would mark a new chapter.