Metra Station Opening Delayed

Construction on Oak Forest's new Metra station continues, and the opening has been pushed back several weeks. 

The station is now expected to open in mid-December, according to Chrissy Maher, public relations coordinator for the city. 

“While we were hoping to cut the ribbon this month, construction delays have pushed us back into December,” said Mayor Hank Kuspa. “I do realize how frustrating this can be for commuters and we are pushing Metra and the contractor to get the warming shelters up and running as soon as possible.” 

Over the course of a year, the city has worked diligently with Metra, which owns the train station to keep the construction process moving swiftly. However, the project has encountered some typical construction setbacks. 

“Metra’s regulations are extremely comprehensive and directly impact the timeline of the construction,” said City Administrator Troy Ishler. “Unfortunately, these types of delays and inconveniences are a part of many, if not all, construction projects. We realize that residents and commuters are eager to see the finished product. We are too because the train station is an essential part of our plan to create a dynamic, transit-oriented development in this area.” 

Work on the $3.4-million Metra station was originally expected to begin in July 2012, then was delayed until October, with construction eventually commencing in February 2013. It will feature several amenities, including a warming shelter, restrooms, indoor and outdoor seated waiting areas and a geothermal heating system.

Two grants helped pay for the project. Oak Forest received $1 million from the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association and $1.3 million from the Illinois Department of Transportation.

The Oak Forest station serves about 1,600 weekday passengers and is on the Rock Island District route.

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