Metra has taken a significant step towards adopting sustainable transportation by approving the purchase of battery-powered, zero-emission trainsets. This initiative, which was approved by Metra’s Board of Directors, positions Metra as one of the first in the United States to implement this technology.
The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning and the Metropolitan Planning Organization Committee have approved new funding for Metra. The approval will allow for Metra to receive a $169.3 million grant from the federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement grant. The money will go towards new electric train sets to be used on multiple lines in order to better and increase service, though no delivery date was announced.
Extensive Metra infrastructure work continues to progress for the Metra in Old Irving Park, aiming for completion in spring 2024, despite delays. A stretch of Milwaukee Avenue by its intersection with Kilbourn has been closed off to support the construction efforts for the railway’s overpass replacement and Grayland Station overhaul. Initially set to conclude in 2022, this closure has been prolonged to prioritize safety and facilitate project efficiency.
A renovation permit has been secured for the 79th Street Chatham Metra station at 1113 E 79th Street in East Catham. Elevated on an embankment and accessible from under a bridge, the station is poised for a series of enhancements by the listed owner Metra.
A construction permit has been approved for a new transit development at 611 W 79th Street, in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood. The project, owned by Metra, involves constructing a new two-story Metra station that will integrate with the Rock Island Line.
