CTA unveils plans for community spaces under Red and Purple Line tracks.

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has revealed its final development plans for the open spaces beneath the newly constructed ‘L’ tracks between the Lawrence and Bryn Mawr stations, marking a new milestone in the $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase One Project. The plans, presented to the public on Feb. 25 and 26, aim to transform 10 blocks of space into community areas.

The CTA worked with Site Design Group, a Chicago-based landscape firm, to guide the design process. The final plans include a pedestrian trail, dog parks, playgrounds, a fitness area, benches, and versatile plaza spaces for community events.

“CTA is pleased to move forward with our promise to build new Red Line track structures and four new, modern and fully accessible Red Line stations and at the same time have our project serve as catalyst for new, community-friendly development under the new ‘L’ tracks,” said Acting CTA President Nora Leerhsen in a statement. “The work we’re doing with the help of the local residents and businesses underscores our commitment to have transit enhance and improve the communities CTA serves.”

For over a year, the CTA worked with local residents, businesses, and stakeholders to develop design ideas for the new public spaces under the Red and Purple Line tracks between Lawrence and Ardmore avenues. These areas were once covered by a century-old, 1.3-mile-long concrete wall, which was removed as part of the RPM project. The project also includes rebuilding the Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn, and Bryn Mawr Red Line stations.

The CTA held multiple public meetings in 2024 to gather community input on the types of features residents wanted to see in the development. The final concepts presented this week build upon those initial proposals, incorporating feedback from local stakeholders.

Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth, 48th ward alderman, emphasized the project’s importance to the neighborhood. 

“The 48th Ward deserves community spaces that are beautiful, safe, and accessible to everyone,” Manaa-Hoppenworth said. “This once-in-a-lifetime investment delivers on that and lays a foundation for our neighbors to keep creating the spaces, events, and community connections that they want to see.”

Construction of the community spaces is set to begin in 2026, with completion anticipated in 2027,

For more information and updates visit the CTA’s website.