Metra will build a new 95th Street station on Chicago State campus

Metra will build a brand new station on its Metra Electric line at 95th Street, a commuter parking lot, and other infrastructure improvements.

The transit agency and Chicago State University are partnering on the project which will involve a new platform, stair enclosure, an elevator and at least one on-demand heater, Metra said. Currently the station operates as a flag stop occasionally, but after the renovation, it will run with scheduled stops. The Park and Ride lot, located on the CSU’s campus near 95th and Cottage Grove, will have 119 spaces.

Design work and engineering will begin immediately to evaluate the cost of the project, Metra said.

“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 and Executive Director Jim Derwinski in a statement.

After touring the campus, Metra agreed with CSU that a revitalization should be prioritized.

Metra is also considering lowering fares on the Electric line down from $4 and $5.50 down to $2.50, which would cost about the same as CTA train or bus fares.