Officials begin plans to develop vacant corridor near 95th Street terminal

On Thursday, Mayor Lightfoot’s administration teased that the city would be taking big steps to “spark development” around the reconstructed 95th Street Red Line terminal.

Part of the $280 million project on the CTA station and bus terminal included the acquisition of eight vacant parcels along State Street north of 95th Street. Now city agencies will begin exploring ideas for the land and engaging the community about what they’d like to see in the corridor.

“The new 95th Street station was conceived not only as an important transit hub, but also as a new landmark and anchor for the community,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr in a statement. “This station can be a catalyst for neighborhood improvements, and this TOD process will ensure that the community has an important say in the outcome.”

The Metropolitan Planning Council, a private planning and policy organization, will help the CTA conduct a community-driven Corridor Development Initiative to gauge what kind of transit-oriented development would most benefit the neighborhood. Following that, the CTA will request proposals from developers, architects, and designers reflecting requirements from those studies.

“The 95th Street Red Line station has long been a gateway to the Far South Side, and the surrounding 95th Street corridor boasts incredible assets including Chicago State University, the Woodsen Regional Library, faith-based partners and engaged constituents,” said Kendra Freeman, director of community development and engagement at MPC.

More details on community meetings and how residents can share ideas will be announced in the coming weeks, the mayor’s office said.