matraProject includes replacement of street-level depot and new elevator.

CHICAGO (May 24, 2017) – The Metra Board of Directors today approved a $3 million contract to renovate the Hazel Crest Station on the Metra Electric Line.

The Bowa Group Inc. of Chicago was the lowest responsive and responsible bidder for the contracted work, which will include construction of a new street-level depot complete with vendor space and restrooms, as well as the replacement of the station’s stairways. The project will also include the addition of an elevator on the north end of the station, which will make the station fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Bowa Group Inc. has committed to ensuring that 20 percent of the contracted work will be performed by disadvantaged business enterprise firms.

“This is a crucial step in one of the most significant station renovation projects in Metra’s 2017 construction program,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Don Orseno. “We look forward to giving customers an updated station that will serve as a welcoming gateway to the community for years to come.”

The Hazel Crest Station, at Park Avenue and 170th Street, serves more than 330 customers each weekday. The work, which is being funded by Metra’s share of proceeds from the state bond program, will begin this summer and take about one year to complete. The station will remain open during construction.

“The village of Hazel Crest is pleased to hear Metra is moving forward on the renovation of the Hazel Crest Station,” said Hazel Crest Village President Vernard L. Alsberry Jr. “The new station will be a part of the overall redevelopment of the east part of our community and a flagship station for the Southland.”

The $3 million Hazel Crest Station renovation project is part of Metra’s 2017 construction program, which includes approximately $216 million in infrastructure improvements to 29 stations, 21 bridges and 29 road crossings and the replacement of 57,000 railroad ties to ensure safe and reliable service and maintain a state of good repair systemwide.