URGENT UPDATE: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is set to close the busy State and Lake Station starting Monday, October 23, 2023, for a massive three-year reconstruction project that will significantly impact thousands of daily commuters. The station, which serves as a hub for the Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple Line trains, will be demolished and rebuilt, leaving riders scrambling for alternatives.
This closure marks a critical moment for those who rely on the station, which ranks as the fifth busiest in the CTA network. Commuter Elizabeth Rauckhorst expressed her frustration, stating, “Big bummer. I take the State and Lake stop every single day, so it’s going to be an impact to me for sure.”
The CTA aims to modernize the station, implementing vital upgrades, including the installation of elevators for better accessibility. Deputy Commissioner Anne Zhang emphasized the need for inclusivity, stating, “The station isn’t accessible to folks in wheelchairs, and we are trying to make it accessible for all our transit riders.”
In addition to accessibility enhancements, the redesign will feature improved safety measures and a more comfortable waiting environment. Architect Scott Duncan explained the necessity of these changes, noting, “If you see the station now, you see it has these very narrow platforms you can barely get by.” The new design aims to provide a weather-protective space, crucial for commuters facing harsh winter conditions.
With the closure, Lake Street will be limited to local traffic only between Dearborn and Wabash, adding to the challenges for those commuting in and out of the Loop. Commuter Ben Axelrod commented on the inconvenience, saying, “I’ll probably just go to the Red Line. It’s going to be a little longer, like 10 minutes maybe, just with my walk.”
The construction project is expected to last until 2029, forcing riders to adjust their travel plans. Commuter Samantha Calistri remains optimistic, stating, “It will be worth it in the end I think. I mean if you’ve seen the pictures of what it’s supposed to look like, it’s beautiful. But definitely will be a bit inconvenient for the next couple of years.”
As the CTA embarks on this significant upgrade, commuters are urged to plan ahead and consider alternate routes. This transformative project promises a modernized transit experience for Chicagoans, but the immediate impact will resonate with daily riders over the coming years.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
