CTA opens four new stations on Red Line

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) on July 20 opened four new stations on the "L" Red Line as part of the $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase I project.

The opening of four contiguous Red Line stations — Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn and Bryn Mawr — marks the first time that many stations have opened at once since 1993 when the Orange Line opened, CTA officials said in a press release.

The new stations replace ones that were more than 100 years old. They feature escalators, elevators, wider platforms, better lighting, improved security features and real-time information boards, among other passenger amenities.

RPM Phase I project construction began in 2019 and entails three major components: the reconstruction of the four stations and 6 miles of Red Line track structure; reconstruction of Red and Purple Line track structure between Belmont and Newport/Cornelia; and installation of a new signal system on 23 track miles between Howard and Belmont.

CTA officials expect RPM Phase I to be substantially completed by the end of 2025, with the exception of newly created under-L public spaces under the new Red and Purple Line tracks.