Chicago Construction News staff writer
Metra officials joined state and local leaders to break ground on an $8.69 million project to upgrade the 115th Street/Morgan Park Station on the Rock Island Line.
The long-anticipated project will bring new platform shelters, lighting, sidewalks, and a plaza to the historic station, which first opened in 1892. Metra will also resurface the station’s two parking lots and install stormwater management infrastructure.
“Today we celebrate a new beginning for this station,” said Metra CEO Jim Derwinski. “After years of waiting, residents of the Morgan Park community will have a more attractive and comfortable facility that enhances this neighborhood.”
IHC Construction Companies LLC of Elgin was awarded the construction contract and has committed to meeting that goal. It will do so by using subcontractors including Araiza Corporation, Brandenburger Plumbing, Inc., EOS Mechanical, Inc., Pinto Construction Group, Inc., and Sanchez Paving Company.
The project is funded in part with a $10 million commitment from the Rebuild Illinois capital program, which is aimed at revitalizing infrastructure across the state.
“An overall $10 million investment in this project from Gov. Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois capital program will improve transit access and quality of life in one of Chicago’s great neighborhoods as well as strengthen transportation across the region,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi.
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said the station improvements will support commuters and help grow ridership.
“Our transit system is an asset to our region,” she said. “By providing upgraded station amenities, we not only better serve our current riders but unlock opportunity to attract new ones.”
Alderman Matt O’Shea, whose ward includes the station, called the project a welcome improvement that respects the site’s historic role in the community.
“We are grateful for the investment Metra is making to provide a thoughtfully designed station that will serve residents for years to come,” O’Shea said.
IHC Construction Companies LLC of Elgin won the construction contract with the lowest responsive and responsible bid. Metra set a target for 25% of the contract total to go to Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) firms. IHC committed to meeting that target through partnerships with Araiza Corporation, Brandenburger Plumbing Inc., EOS Mechanical Inc., Pinto Construction Group Inc., and Sanchez Paving Company.
Construction is scheduled to begin immediately.
