The City of Chicago, Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) revealed preliminary designs for a renovation of the city’s State/Lake elevated station. 

Located in the heart of downtown, this is the second busiest station in the CTA network, located at a vital junction within the Chicago Loop. Built in 1895, it is one of the oldest stations in Chicago’s elevated rail network. The station serves six of Chicago’s eight train lines and connects to pedestrian and bus routes. The design is led by SOM and TranSystems, a design firm focused on transportation infrastructure, and a local consultant team with expertise in transit and historic preservation. The project is also guided by input from neighboring property owners, along with civic and preservation organizations. 

The proposed $180 million design includes wider, safer platforms, a sweeping glass canopy to protect passengers from the elements, a new accessible fly-over connection bridge, new elevators for riders of all mobilities, and public realm enhancements at street level. Improvements to the station’s structural design will open up the below intersection, removing obstructive columns, and enhancing safety for pedestrian and vehicle traffic along State Street. The project also includes street-level lighting upgrades, wider street corners, an improved pedestrian crossing, and an accessible connection to the plaza to the north.

“The new State/Lake station will be a gateway to downtown for Chicagoans and visitors alike. As one of the most visible stations in the CTA network, the design is reflective of both its location and the needs of riders, with a soaring glass canopy, comfortable spaces for passengers, and fully integrated accessible design for riders of all mobility levels,” says SOM Design Partner, Scott Duncan. 

The design for the glass canopy features a bird-friendly frit pattern that provides shading in the summer and protection from harsh Chicago winds in the winter. It also allows ample daylight into the station. Minimized obstructions allow for expanded views of State Street, which includes the Chicago Theatre and other adjacent historical buildings and architectural landmarks. In addition, historic materials from the existing station are functionally integrated into the design coupled with educational elements to create a connection between the past and future. 

A new glass and metal-clad bridge on the western end of the station will make it easier for riders to move between platforms. The bridge will connect to new elevators and stairs in order to establish a fully accessible circulation from street to platform. Widened platforms and additional required exits will accommodate increased ridership and improve comfort and safety. 

"Given that the State and Lake CTA Station lies within the beating heart of Chicago, we must pave the way for its full modernization and make it easily accessible for all transit riders," says Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. "In addition to accessibility, this project also demonstrates our commitment to the full revival of the Loop—which is the economic engine and cultural hub of our great city."

The project team’s local consultant group includes, HDR, GSG Consultants, Ardmore Roderick, Garza Karhoff Engineering, Legacy Rail Operations, Rider Levett Bucknall, Milhouse Engineering, site design group, Gannett Fleming, Facet Engineering, American Surveying, and Metro Strategies. 

Once the design is finalized and the project secures funding, construction is expected to take three years.