The Chicago Transit Authority board voted to approve construction contracts for a revitalization project at the California Blue Line station site.
The work — paid for by state transportation and local TIF funds — is set to begin in late fall 2027, according to the CTA.
The project will expand platforms and canopies and add two elevators, new stairs and accessible doors at the site. General infrastructure improvements such as lighting, sidewalks, ramps, drainage, and landscaping will also be done.
The California station, which the CTA said saw 1.1 million commuters in 2025, last underwent work in 2014 as part of the city's Your New Blue Project. At the time, it received new lighting, signage, refurbished walls, stairs, platforms and bicycle racks.
A temporary stationhouse and entrance will be built at St. George’s Court to be used while construction is ongoing.
The agency said it is part of its ongoing All Stations Accessibility Program, which aims to make all rail stations fully accessible by 2038.
“An accessible CTA gives more people the freedom to travel independently and connects them to everything our region has to offer,” CTA interim President Nora Leerhsen said in a statement. “This investment will bring that promise to life at the California Blue Line station, delivering a modern, welcoming station that better serves riders with disabilities and the entire community."
