CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The U.S. Department of Transportation is launching a $686 million effort to make United States rail and subway stations more accessible.
Illinois is receiving a total of $185 million in grants. Over $118 million is going to the CTA to make the Irving Park, Belmont, and Pulaski stations more accessible.
U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, who is a wheelchair user, said implementing these changes is crucial.
"I don't ride the L, the elevated train in Chicago, because it is not accessible and it's been one of my biggest frustrations."
Metra is receiving over $66 million in two grants improve the 59th/60th Street Station on the Metra Electric line and the 95th Street-Chicago State University station.
Nuria Fernandez with the Federal Transit Authority said these grants will fund all kinds of changes.
"Funds are eligible for putting in a new elevator to build ramps, and also to do any adjustments to platforms to ensure that they can close gaps and allow for level boarding of wheelchairs."
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