CTA to get $120M in federal funding for Blue Line O'Hare Branch renovation

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The CTA's Jefferson Park Blue Line station is one of over a dozen now slated for a facelift - and commuters say it's about time.

"You get to some of the train stations and the heating things don't work or the escalators don't work and you wind up missing your train," said Ryan McFadden, a commuter.

The CTA has secured $120 million in federal funding for the ongoing four-year, $492 million "Your New Blue" renovation project.

Officials say it will benefit the more than 80,000 customers who use the O'Hare branch each weekday.

"It's the biggest investment in the Blue Line branch since it was extended to O'Hare Airport from Jefferson Park more than 30 years ago," said CTA President Forrest Claypool.

The project promises upgrades to tracks and signal systems at 13 CTA Blue Line stations and grow Chicago's tourism industry by allowing easier travel from the world's busiest airport to downtown.

"The million plus riders who board trains every weekday deserve better than slow zones and delays," said Anthony Foxx, U.S. Transportation secretary.

City officials say the project will create 1,300 construction jobs, especially for minorities and women.

"One of the great things about this project is that, in addition to having better service, it creates jobs in the community," said Andrea Zopp, Chicago Urban League.

According to transit officials, annual ridership on the Blue Line increased by 6.3 million rides over the past 10 years - the second highest for any branch after the Red Line, which added 7 million rides.

"I've repeatedly said you can't have 21st century economy built on a 20th century foundation," said Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

And although upgrades have already been completed at the Damen, Western and California Blue Line stations, some commuters say there's still more work to be done.

"The trains are fine, I find most of the wait on the bus part, like I'm probably going to be here for another 20 minutes waiting for the bus," said Craig Finnern, a commuter.