The Metra Board of Directors joined local officials today to break ground on a $8.69 million project to improve the 115th Street/Morgan Park Station on the Rock Island Line.
“Today we celebrate a new beginning for this station,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski. “After years of waiting, residents of the Morgan Park community will have a more attractive and comfortable facility that enhances this neighborhood.”
“An overall $10 million investment in this project from Gov. Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois capital program will improve transit access and quality of life in one of Chicago’s great neighborhoods as well as strengthen transportation across the region,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “We are proud to have worked with Metra to break ground on these improvements. We look forward to their customers experiencing the benefits soon.”
“Investing in our transit system is critically important to ensure our residents are able to travel to work, school, important appointments as well as activities,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “Our transit system is an asset to our region. By providing upgraded station amenities, we not only better service our current riders, but unlock opportunity to attract new ones.”
“Originally opening in 1892, the Metra Station on 115th Street is an important part of our ward's history,” said Alderman Matt O’Shea. “We are grateful for the investment Metra is making to provide a thoughtfully designed station that will serve residents for years to come.”
The project will replace the existing platform shelters, create a new plaza and sidewalks, and address stormwater management needs. The project will also include resurfacing the station’s two parking areas and new lighting.
IHC Construction Companies LLC of Elgin was awarded the contract after submitting the lowest responsive and responsible bid for the work. Metra has set a goal for the project to expend 25% of the contract total using Disadvantage Business Enterprises (DBE) firms. IHC has committed to meeting this goal by using the following subcontractors: Araiza
Corporation, Brandenburger Plumbing, Inc., EOS Mechanical, Inc., Pinto Construction Group, Inc., and Sanchez Paving Company.
