Chicago’s Metra Metropolitan Rail (Metra) and local officials recently celebrated the completion of a $39.5 million project to replace an 1899 railroad bridge over Milwaukee Avenue on the North Side of Chicago and reconstruct the adjacent Grayland Station.
According to an agency release, replacing the aging bridge was necessary due to it being a vital link in the regional and national rail network. The bridge serves Metra and Amtrak passenger trains and CPKC and Wisconsin Southern freight trains, and it became a source of operational delays due to its deteriorating conditions.
The replacement project, which included new abutments, columns, and precast retaining walls, has eliminated slow zones and reduced maintenance-related service disruptions.
“We know this work was disruptive for our riders, local drivers, and residents of the nearby community, and we would like to thank them for their patience and understanding while we replaced this critical infrastructure,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Jim Derwinski. “We now have a bridge, and a comfortable and functional new station, that will serve them for many years into the future.”
“We are thrilled to usher in the new Grayland Metra Station to the far Northwest side of Chicago,” said Illinois State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe. “As a frequent user of the Milwaukee District North Line myself, I know that this renovated and ADA-compliant station will improve the quality of life of many area residents who rely on vital public transit to travel around the Chicagoland area, including to and from work downtown. We are grateful to everyone who made this collaborative effort happen, including the very patient area residents.”
The upgraded station, just south of the bridge, now features longer platforms, ADA-compliant ramps and stairs, new warming shelters with on-demand heating on each side, and a modern public address system with visual information signs. Enhanced lighting and platform furnishings contribute to a safer and more comfortable environment.
“The Metra rail system is an important part of our Cook County infrastructure,” said Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vasquez. “The Grayland Station will serve thousands of daily commuters, connecting Chicago neighborhoods to our suburban communities while also reducing traffic congestion. This station is a powerful example of intergovernmental collaboration and our collective commitment to improving rail service reliability, accessibility, and community connectivity.”
The project was funded with $16.5 million from the Federal Transit Administration, $17.8 million from the Federal Railroad Administration, $2.3 million from Canadian Pacific, and $2.9 million in other Metra funding. Construction was done by IHC Construction Companies of Elgin.
