The Homewood Metra stop is getting a $14.5 million facelift after its board of directors had approved the contract for renovations. The work will begin in the spring and will continue over the next two years.
The Homewood stop, which is located along the Metra Electric Line, will be renovated and will include:
- Constructing a new, ADA-accessible headhouse and ramp
- Renovating the station's platform
- Windbreaks
- Warming house
- Gatehouse
- Installing new drainage
- Lighting
- Interior finishes in the existing 1911 tunnel
- Improvements to the elevator that connects the tunnel to the platform
- Construction of a new Pace bus facility
- Drive aisle
- Three bus slips
- Covered waiting area
- Driver relief facilities
Patch announces that IHC Construction of Elgin, a long-term customer of DataBid, has been awarded the Metra contract. They will subcontract 30 percent of the work to DBE firms.
"This project represents a significant upgrade to the Homewood Station and its pedestrian tunnel. It will not only create a more welcoming, more accessible station and tunnel for Metra and Amtrak customers, but also a more welcoming gateway for Homewood's downtown retail district and residential areas."
Metra CEO & Executive Director | Jim Derwinski
Darik Illinois News states that the station was constructed in 1923 to include a level path between waiting areas and restrooms and stair and ramp entrances to the building, parking and tunnel. The project is part of the Metra Electric Community Initiative, a multi-year plan to renovate and make accessible 13 stations on the Metra Electric Line through the southbound and south suburbs.
Homewood and Metra pursued federal Common Transportation Program funding to fund construction of this project according to officials. The project was awarded a federal STP fund of $9.25 million and local matching funds were provided to secure a discretionary grant.
Rehabilitation of the station will also be funded with support from Pace, Cook County and other funding sources.
DataBid is currently reporting on this project - Metra Homewood Station Renovation (0030070522)
