Grayland Metra Station Back Open After Years Of Construction

The Grayland Metra station in Old Irving Park reopened after four years of extensive renovations, significantly enhancing transit access between the northern suburbs and downtown Chicago. The $39. 5 million project included the construction of a new bridge, longer station platforms, heated shelters, and ADA-compliant accessibility features. Ald. Ruth Cruz celebrated the station's reopening at a ribbon-cutting ceremony, stating it represents progress for local communities.

The project encountered multiple delays, with the surrounding intersection closed for over a year, leading to resident complaints about noise and traffic disruption. To alleviate concerns, Metra established a project website in 2023 to keep the community informed. The renovation required complex engineering, including the erection of a temporary bridge to maintain train service during construction. Funding came from various sources, including $16. 5 million from the Federal Transit Administration and $17.

8 million from the Federal Railroad Administration. Cruz also urged state lawmakers to address transit funding gaps, warning that without action, one in five Chicagoans could lose access to public transit by 2026.