Renovated and accessible rail stations unveiled by CTA, as part of the agency's initial phase of the Rapid Platform Modernization Project.
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has recently completed a significant renovation project on four Red Line stations – Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn, and Bryn Mawr. These stations, which reopened on July 20, 2025, are now fully accessible, modernized, and offer a brighter, cleaner, and more aesthetically pleasing pedestrian environment [1][3][4].
As part of the $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase One Project, these renovations aim to provide smoother, more reliable train service and improve the overall transit experience on CTA’s busiest line. The renovations mark the first time that this many stations have opened simultaneously on the CTA since the Orange Line in 1993 [1].
Each station boasts improved lighting and security features, real-time information boards, and original artwork [1][3][4]. Overcrowding on trains and platforms is expected to decrease at the renovated stations.
In addition to these station renovations, the CTA has announced plans to develop 10 blocks of open public space under the newly renovated Red and Purple Line 'L' tracks between Lawrence and Ardmore avenues. The design for these spaces includes a pedestrian trail, dog parks, playgrounds, fitness areas, benches, and flexible-use plaza spaces for community events [2].
Construction of these under-track public spaces is expected to begin in 2026 and be completed in 2027. This development aims to activate the newly created areas beneath the elevated tracks for community use, reflecting input from local residents and stakeholders [1][2][4].
The RPM Phase One is the largest completed transit investment in CTA's history, marking a significant step forward in modernizing Chicago's public transportation system [4].
[1] Chicago Transit Authority. (2025). Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase One Project. Retrieved from https://www.transitchicago.com/projects/red-purple-modernization/
[2] City of Chicago. (2025). Under-Track Public Spaces. Retrieved from https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dcd/supp_info/undertrackpublicspaces.html
[3] Chicago Tribune. (2025). Four Red Line Stations Reopen After Major Renovations. Retrieved from https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-red-line-stations-reopen-20250720-7j64l3h54nb5fzr7577777777-story.html
[4] WTTW. (2025). CTA's Red and Purple Line Modernization Project Nears Completion. Retrieved from https://www.wttw.com/news/cta-s-red-and-purple-line-modernization-project-nears-completion
- The Red Line modernization project, valued at $2.1 billion, is the largest investment in Chicago's public transportation infrastructure in history, touching not just the train service (finance) but also its stations (infrastructure), aiming to improve reliability and overall transit experience within the transport industry.
- In line with the transformation of the Red and Purple Line stations, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) also plans to develop 10 blocks of public space beneath the elevated tracks, creating a pedestrian trail, dog parks, playgrounds, fitness areas, benches, and flexible-use plaza spaces for community events, expanding the use and engagement options within the rail sector.
- Notably, the CTA's renovation of four Red Line stations, alongside the planned under-track public spaces, represents a shift in the industry—moving beyond mere transportation to offering aesthetically pleasing and vibrant spaces (transportation, infrastructure, industry) that bring the community together and elevate the pedestrian environment.
