Imagine waiting on this very corner. Soon the Auburn Park Metra Station will stand here. It promises a fresh chapter for Auburn Gresham. This station at 79th Street and South Lowe Avenue isn’t just steel and concrete. It represents community aspirations. It symbolizes a link to a brighter future.
Let’s dive into the story of the Auburn Park Metra Station. The Rock Island District line will run through here. This station is more than a simple commute. It’s a revival of a historic connection. A previous station existed nearby at 78th Street. The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad operated it. That station served passengers from 1879 to 1978. Ridership declined. The old station closed.
Now fast forward. Imagine the groundbreaking ceremony on September 30, 2019. Local leaders celebrated a new beginning. State bonds had been approved years prior. Budgeting issues caused delays. The community’s persistence finally paid off.
The new Auburn Park Metra Station aims to offer modern amenities. It will have full accessibility under ADA guidelines. Bicycle racks will encourage eco-friendly commutes. An 84-space parking lot will offer convenience. A staircase and two elevators will connect street to platform. Landscaped green space will beautify the area. A chemical-free snow melt system will ensure safety during winter. A living green wall will adorn the retaining wall.
State Senator Jacqueline Collins secured $30 million in state funding. She emphasized the importance of equitable access. The South Side deserves better public transportation. The new station means progress.
The $28.2 million contract was awarded to John Burns Construction. The project includes raising the bridge. Metra tracks run on this bridge. Norfolk Southern freight trains pass underneath. Higher clearance is necessary. The station and bridge will stand over 40 feet high.
Construction hasn’t been without challenges. Residents have voiced concerns about noise and vibrations. Rodent infestations have also occurred. Metra officials are working to address these issues. They are trying to maintain open communication with neighbors.
The Auburn Park Metra Station is scheduled to open by September 2025. This station will offer a direct rail link to downtown Chicago. It will also connect to the southwest suburbs.
Consider the impact on the Auburn Gresham community. The Auburn Park Metra Station will bring new opportunities. It means easier commutes. It also fosters economic growth. The station is a testament to perseverance. It shows the strength of community advocacy. The future is on track right here.