Metra Partners with CSU to Build a New Station on Chicago’s South Side

CHICAGO, IL. – Metra and Chicago State University are proud to announce that Metra has agreed to rehabilitate and transform the 95th Street Station on its Metra Electric Line by building a new station branded “95th Street/Chicago State University” and a commuter parking facility, among other improvements. On June 28, 2019, Metra and Chicago State University entered a Memorandum of Understanding to revitalize the stop, demonstrating the strong commitment by both institutions to provide safe and accessible transportation options and stimulate economic growth on the far southeast side of Chicago.

“We are excited about our partnership with Metra and their engagement to support the revitalization of transit on our campus and the South Side,” said President Zaldwaynaka Scott, Esq.  “Renovation of the 95^th Street/CSU train station is vital to the economic development of the community. Improving accessibility and security will attract businesses and provide multimodal transit options for our students; thus creating a transit-friendly environment”. 

Plans for the station include a new platform, stair enclosure and entrance that includes a staircase, elevator and at least one on-demand heater. Currently a flag stop at times, the renovated station will operate as a full station at which all trains will make scheduled stops. The station will also include a Park and Ride Facility that will contain a minimum of 119 parking spaces, to be located on the university’s campus near the station at 95^th and Cottage Grove. The Park and Ride Facility will be comparable to facilities at other Metra stations and will be available to all commuters boarding at the 95^th Street/CSU station. 

“I commend Metra and Chicago State University for joining forces to revitalize this stop. This effort is an example of the cooperative partnerships needed to revitalize, grow and develop the south land, which includes providing stability for Chicago State University,” State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago) said. “This stop will not only help students and community members travel safely, it will further assist in efforts to showcase the amazing things happening throughout the region and foster economic growth for the benefit of the community and business owners alike.”

“We are excited to be working with Chicago State officials to create a much-improved station that will serve as a welcoming gateway to the university as well as to the Metra system,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski. 

After only a short time in office, President Scott attended Metra’s September 2018 board meeting and provided written and oral comments regarding her concerns about the facility and the need for additional investment in the 95^th Street station that services the university and its surrounding community. After touring the campus, Metra agreed to invest in the 95^th Street/Chicago State University Station and plans to begin design work immediately.  

“We are pleased with the commitment of Metra and CSU to prioritize the safety of our community”, said Michael LaFargue of West Chesterfield. “Our community deserves a train station that is equitable to that of our neighboring communities like Beverly and Oak Lawn”.