Historic 59th Street Metra Station Set for $78 Million Transformation as Hyde Park Transportation Hub
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Hyde Park ·
The Chicago Plan Commission has officially approved plans to rehabilitate and modernize the 59th/60th Street Metra station in Hyde Park. The station, located at the east end of the Midway Plaisance, will undergo a complete transformation with entrances at both E. 59th Street and E. 60th Street.
Designed by Legat Architects, the ambitious renovation will include removing and replacing the existing headhouses, building new warming houses, and reconstructing the ground-level depots with enlarged waiting areas. Both street-level entrances will receive stunning glass enclosures to maximize light, transparency, and security. The platform headhouses will feature textured concrete panels and bird-friendly glazing, with convenient bike racks installed at each entry. Additionally, both the 59th and 60th Street entrances will be equipped with two elevators each, storage rooms, and digital information boards to enhance the passenger experience.
The $78 million renovation project is scheduled to begin construction in the summer of 2026 and is expected to be completed by early 2030. These improvements come at a perfect time, as the station anticipates increased ridership due to University of Chicago expansion projects and the construction of the Barack Obama Presidential Center nearby. Hyde Park residents interested in learning more about the project can visit Metra's website for detailed information and updates as this transformative community enhancement moves forward.
Sources:
1. https://www.chicagobuildexpo.com/industry-news-1/plans-approved-rebuilt-59th-street-metra-station-hyde-park
2. https://chicago.urbanize.city/post/plan-commission-approves-rehab-59th60th-st-metra-station
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/59th/60th_Street/University_of_Chicago_station
4. http://metra.com/59th60th