CTA celebrates start of accessibility work at Austin Green Line

Mayor Brandon Johnson joined Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Acting President Nora Leerhsen and other dignitaries for a ceremonial groundbreaking event today marking the start of major project work to make the Austin Green Line station fully accessible to those with disabilities. This work is part of the CTA’s All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) and complements Mayor Johnson’s vision to make Chicago the most accessible city in the world.

“Today's groundbreaking at Austin Station represents our shared commitment to equity across Chicago,” said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. “Accessibility is not a luxury nor is it optional; it is a fundamental right. I am proud that when completed this project will transform daily life for residents with disabilities who rely on public transit. I am deeply grateful to Senator Duckworth for her advocacy and determination to secure vital federal funding for this station, and my administration looks forward to continued partnership as we make a more accessible Chicago for everyone.” 

CTA’s ASAP Strategic Plan was released in 2018 and serves as a blueprint for making all rail stations fully accessible by 2038, plus upgrading or replacing existing system elevators. Currently 104 of CTA’s 146 rail stations (70%) are ADA accessible. Austin is among the 14 stations currently funded and in various stages of planning, design or under construction.

“For too long, inaccessible CTA rail stations have limited opportunities to those in the communities we serve,” said CTA Acting President Leerhsen. “The start of this project work is the first major milestone in the year ahead for CTA’s All Stations Accessibility Program, which will include the opening of six newly accessible rail stations across the City – and demonstrates our commitment to making public transit work for everyone.”

Funding for this critical infrastructure project was sourced through the federal government’s Surface Transportation Program (STP) and Governor Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan.  STP funds provided $20.3M in funding and Rebuild Illinois provided $5.3M to this project for a total budget of $25.6M.

The original street level station opened in 1899 and has not been upgraded since it was rebuilt in 1962.  Beginning in June, the main entrance of the Austin Green Line station will be closed for the start of major project work, which is expected to continue into early 2026. Work will include the installation of a new elevator and escalator connecting to the platform; reconstruction of the stairs and a new ADA compliant ramp; extension of the platform; plus, other station enhancements. During this time, riders will continue to have access to rail services using the station's auxiliary entrance.