Four updated North Side ‘L’ stations to open in July

CHICAGO (WGN) — Four north side ‘L’ stations that have been rebuilt as part of the largest capital improvement project in the Chicago Transit Authority’s history will open next month.

The more than a century-old stations — Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn and Bryn Mawr — will fully reopen to commuters on Sunday, July 20, the CTA said. The updated stations feature modern designs and are fully accessible with elevators and escalators. They also include wider platforms; large translucent overhead canopies for increased protection from inclement weather; platform benches; and turnstiles and Ventra fare machines.

“By opening these four stations that will be accessible to customers with disabilities, we move closer to our goal of having all of our CTA stations fully accessible,” acting CTA president Nora Leerhsen said in a statement.

Once open, temporary stations at Argyle and Bryn Mawr will close. The opening of four new contiguous stations marks the first time that this many stations have opened simultaneously since the Orange Line in 1993, the CTA said.

The rebuilds are a part of the $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase One Project that also includes the reconstruction of the Red and Purple Line Express track structure and the installation of a new signal system that the CTA says will provide smoother, quieter and more reliable rides.

Another part of the Phase One Project will include the development of open space under the new tracks once 1.3 miles of century-old, concrete embankment wall are fully demolished. Construction is expected to begin next year on plans that include a pedestrian trail, dog parks, playground, fitness area, benches, and a flexible-use plaza space for community events. Completion is anticipated for 2027.