Quantcast

The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

Blue Line Overhaul Will Mean Closures at California, Damen Stations

By Josh McGhee | August 11, 2014 7:14am | Updated on August 11, 2014 7:47am
 A look at the improvements planned for the Blue Line's Damen, Western and California stations.
Blue Line Improvements
View Full Caption

CHICAGO — Three of the oldest "L" stops along the Blue Line will be receiving upgrades to their platforms and stations beginning in September.

The renovations at the Damen, California and Western stations are apart of the $492 million Your New Blue Modernization project. Major upgrades at the California and Damen stations will force each station to close for several weeks, Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced via a press release Monday.

The station improvements for the three station will cost a total of $33 million. The California station will be the first to be renovated, closing for six weeks of improvements beginning Sept. 4. The station will reopen six weeks later.

On Oct. 20, after the California station is reopened, construction will begin on the Damen station. The Damen station is scheduled to reopen on Dec. 22. Renovations at Damen and California will include improved lighting and signage along with adding additional turnstiles and bike racks.

The Western station, which was renovated in 2001 requires significantly less work and will remain open during construction throughout the fall. All three stations will also receive unique artwork once the renovations are complete.

During the construction, the CTA will add additional bus service on the No. 56 Milwaukee bus during the weekday morning and evening rush period. "Owl" service will also be added during the overnight hours to link to the closest station in either direction.

Residents and commuters should also be aware of temporary street/alley closures and parking restrictions near the Blue Line. Dates of those closures will be specified closer to the beginning of construction.

For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here: