If you’ve been eagerly anticipating a transformative update for the Metra, the wait is over.
This year, Chicago’s Metra is planning a complete overhaul—renovating 20 stations, replacing 22 grade crossings, and undertaking three significant tie replacement projects.
In addition to new projects, the 2026 construction program includes numerous smaller infrastructure improvements across Metra’s 11 line service lines to provide a more efficient and secure ride.
Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski:
We plan to take full advantage of the construction season and available funding to address projects across the railroad.
Metra is grateful for the significant financial support we have received in recent years to address a backlog of critical capital projects. However, infrastructure maintenance is an ongoing need, and that’s why we will continue to work with our funding and governance partners to identify, plan, and carry out projects that support our system today and in the future.
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Metra’s 2026 construction project timeline includes:
Plans to enhance 20 stations this year, with an additional 47 stations currently in the design phase. The focus will be on increasing accessibility and upgrading to a state of good repair, which includes improvements to ramps, platforms, parking, and signage.
Metra and its partners will replace over 51,000 railroad ties, upgrade 22 rail crossings, and advance significant bridge projects. Notably, there will be a $337 million effort to rebuild 11 century-old bridges on the UP North Line.
The agency is also upgrading signal systems and communications to improve reliability and add operational flexibility. Most construction activities are scheduled during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions for riders.
