Renovations are now underway at the South Water Street entrance to Millennium Station in the Loop.
On Thursday, Metra and other local officials broke ground on the $8.1 million project along the Metra Electric Line.
"This area provides important access to the Metra system," said Metra Vice Chair Paul Ruffin. "More importantly, it provides the sole ADA-access to Millennium's platforms."
In addition to ADA improvements, the project includes new entrances with enhanced visibility at Lower South Water St.; renovation of waiting areas, public restrooms and staff office areas; new employee facilities; replacement of staircases, canopies, and elevators; a new vendor space; new lighting, benches, signs and station amenities; and new digital displays with train-tracking information.
Chair Joseph McMahon says Metra is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize infrastructure and enhance and improve the riding experience for users.
"We know our riders and constituents deserve and demand safe, comfortable and functional stations delivered by public transit," McMahon says.
The South Water Street entrance project, which is funded by money from the Federal Transit Administration and the Rebuild Illinois bond program, is expected to be completed in 2027.