Related shows new layout for 15th Street Red Line station at South Loop megadevelopment

On Thursday, Related Midwest presented details on its latest plan to bring a new CTA Red Line station to its near South Side megadevelopment known as ‘The 78.’

While the Chicago-based developer had initially pitched the subway stop for vacant CTA-owned land at southeast corner of 15th Street and Clark Street, it shifted the station to within the boundaries of the new development following objections from nearby residents and 3rd Ward Alderman Pat Dowell.

The updated plan now places the station at the southwest corner of the intersection, below a new mixed-use structure at the $7 billion, 62-acre riverfront development. It will be 200 feet west and 160 feet south of the previous location.

The changes were generally well received by neighbors, according to a Related spokesperson. A facebook video of Thursday’s meeting featured a far more relaxed and receptive crowd compared to December’s presentation.

Related Midwest

In addition to moving the stop further from the single-family homes of the Dearborn Park II neighborhood, the revised alignment will avoid disruptions at Cotton Tail Park which was a contentious aspect of the original proposal. The new location will place the train platforms on a slight bend and mild incline, but still within the CTA’s accessibility parameters.

After the meeting, Alderman Dowell commended Related on the changes but stopped short of offering her full endorsement, reported Crain’s. The station’s new location in the 25th Ward means the matter will be deferred to whomever replaces retiring—and scandal embroiled—Alderman Danny Solis.

Originally estimated to cost around $300 million, the Red Line station is one of several key infrastructure improvements Related plans for The 78, including the relocation of the existing Metra tracks and the completion of the Wells-Wentworth Connector roadway project.

Much like the controversial Lincoln Yards megaproject along the Chicago River’s north branch, The 78 development is counting on the city to reimburse its developers for the improvements via a newly proposed $500 million tax increment financing (TIF) district. Related hopes to start work on the new transit stop in the next 24 months.

Related Midwest

• South Loop megaproject developer tweaks CTA Red Line plan [Crain’s]
• Alderman rejects plan for CTA station at Clark and 15th Street [Curbed Chicago]
• New Red Line stop next to ‘The 78’ revealed [Curbed Chicago]