LOGAN SQUARE — Photos posted online from the Chicago Transit Authority show the California Blue Line’s renovation project a month away from its reopening.
The California and Damen stations opened for service in 1895, replacing an old elevated station with a modern overhaul. The California station shut down Sept. 4 and will reopen after ongoing repair work Oct. 16.
“Many familiar elements in the station have been dismantled or removed, including parts of the station building, platforms and canopies. The work involves new lighting, improved signage and wayfinding elements, redone platforms and platform furniture and restoration of the historic stationhouse,” according to the CTA Facebook post.
Concessions will not be offered at the station when the "Your New Blue" renovations are complete.
Work on the California station includes:
Station Exterior:
• Upgrade lighting to include LED lights
• Improve signage, wayfinding and other communications
• Installation of public art (installed after completion of station work)
Station House Entry:
• Repainting of elevated structure
• Installation of new lighting on elevated structure to highlight the station’s historic façade
• Replacement of concrete paving
• Installation of new bike racks
Station House:
• Replacement of concrete flooring with granite
• Restore historic masonry walls and entrance canopy
• Renewal of interior wall and ceiling finishes
• Replacement of agent’s booth with prefabricated stainless steel booth
Platform:
• Replacement of wood deck with new wood deck with tactile edge
• Replacement of platform furniture (windbreaks, benches, trash containers, etc.)
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