UPDATE: A landmark transit bill signed by Gov. JB Pritzker is set to breathe new life into the Englewood community as the long-closed 63rd and Racine Green Line station is poised to reopen by January 1, 2029. The Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act, which allocates $1.5 billion for public transportation improvements, mandates the renovation or construction of this crucial station.
This historic legislation, passed just yesterday, marks a significant victory for local advocates who have tirelessly championed the station’s reopening for decades. The Englewood station, a vital transit hub for the community, was closed over 30 years ago, leaving residents without essential public transportation options.
Community organizations, including Teamwork Englewood and the Inner-City Muslim Action Network, have rallied support for this initiative, culminating in the collection of over 1,000 signatures for an advisory referendum. The overwhelming community backing reflects a deep desire for revitalization and accessibility in Englewood.
“This bill is an affirmation that state leaders believe in the potential of Englewood,” said Taqi Thomas, associate director of community engagement at the Inner-City Muslim Action Network. He emphasized that the reopening of the station could reignite hope in a community that has faced years of disinvestment.
The newly proposed transit station will not only enhance mobility but also promote economic growth along the 63rd Street corridor. In addition to the Green Line station, the act includes plans for the restoration of the Blue Line’s Central station on the Forest Park branch.
The feasibility study funded by $2 million allocated by former U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush marks another step towards making the station a reality. Though costs for the comprehensive project are still being assessed, estimates suggest the overhaul could reach up to $100 million.
Englewood residents are eager to see their neighborhood transformed. The Go Green On Racine initiative has already made strides in revitalizing local resources, such as the Go Green Community Fresh Market and the E.G. Woode Food Hub. Thomas envisions a redesigned station that encapsulates the spirit and beauty of Englewood, showcasing the community’s resilience.
“We want the CTA to show our residents that they care,” Thomas added. He believes that with renewed public transportation access, Englewood can reclaim its vibrant past and create a future where local businesses can thrive.
As plans for the station accelerate, community leaders and residents are urged to stay engaged with ongoing developments. The reopening of the 63rd and Racine station not only signifies a restoration of a vital service but also a commitment to the future of Englewood.
This project is more than just bricks and mortar; it represents hope and opportunity for countless families in the area. The community eagerly anticipates the positive changes that this revitalization will bring, reaffirming their commitment to becoming a cherished part of Chicago’s urban landscape once again.
