CTA Red, Purple lines move to new tracks as part of modernization project
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Part of a CTA modernization project wrapped up, with Red and Purple Line trains on the North Side moving on some new tracks.
The CTA announced Friday the completion of 1.3 miles of two Red Line tracks between the Lawrence and Bryn Mawr stations.
A ceremonial train traveled the new tracks Friday morning, breaking through a banner which was fixed across the structure.
The event commemorated the start of service on the newly built Red Line tracks in that area which replaces a 100- year-old structure.
This is all part of the $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization Project.
"Not only is it a complicated projected, it is a project that we are building while operating revenue service every day," CTA President Dorval Carter Jr. said. "That is probably one of the most complex construction projects that you can ever do. This is the biggest construction project in the history of the Chicago Transit Authority and almost $3 billion. We have never taken on anything as massive or as long."
Officials also announced the kickoff of the final major stage of the project which will include building new red line stations at Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn and Bryn Mawr
The next step includes the construction of four new, fully accessible stations at Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn and Bryn Mawr. The new stops will open in 2025.
Here's what Friday's changes mean for Red and Purple line riders.
There will be temporary stations At Argyle and Bryn Mawr.
The Bryn Mawr temporary station will be southbound only. Those wanting to go northbound can board a southbound train to Argyle and cross the platform to board a northbound train or use the Thorndale station north of the Bryn Mawr station.
The new Argyle temporary station will have entrances on West Foster and West Winona.
The new Bryn Mawr temporary station will have an entrance on West Bryn Mawr and auxiliary exit at West Catalpa.
The Lawrence and Berwyn Stations will remain closed during this project.
