Chicago, Illinois, USA
“As one of the most visible stations in the CTA network, the design is reflective of both its location and the needs of riders, with a soaring glass canopy, comfortable spaces for passengers, and fully integrated accessible design for riders of all mobility levels,” says SOM design partner Scott Duncan.
For years, the City of Chicago has tried to tear down the City’s historic “L” (short for “elevated”) which began operations in 1893 only to face the angry protests of the City’s preservationist community who have managed to save this historic landmark.
Now, the City of Chicago, Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) have recently published designs for a transformed Red Line Connection and elevated station downtown.
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and TranSystems are leading the $180 million redesign and transformation of Chicago’s second busiest transit spots, the State/Lake Station.
In the design, a new glass and metal-clad bridge on the station’s western end will connect to new elevators and stairs for fully accessible circulation from street to platform.
There will be additional exits to accommodate increased ridership and improve comfort and safety.
Improvements to the station’s structural design will open the intersection below, removing obstructive columns and increasing safety for pedestrians and vehicles.
A glass canopy with a bird-friendly frit pattern will provide shading in the summer and protection from winds in the winter while allowing ample daylight into the station.
The transparency and lightness of the structure draw from Chicago’s history of structural innovation while minimizing obstructions to provide expanded views towards the theatre marquee, historical buildings, and architectural landmarks along the state street corridor.
Moreover, a new glass and metal-clad bridge on the western end of the station will connect to new elevators and stairs for fully accessible circulation from street to platform.
The design also includes street-level lighting upgrades, wider street corners, an improved pedestrian crossing, and an accessible connection to the plaza to the north.
SOM states that the design is also structurally efficient, minimizing obstructions to provide expanded views of the Chicago Theatre marquee, adjacent historical buildings, and nearby architectural landmarks.
Project: Transformation of the State/Lake Elevated Station
Architects: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
Architecture and Engineering Planners: TranSystems
Clients: City of Chicago, Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
