Metra enters final phase of bridge reconstruction on UP-N line

Chicago Metra

Chicago’s Metra is ready to enter the final phase of a $30 million Ravenswood project that includes track and station work.

Crews have already renovated 11 rail bridges on the Metra’s UP-N line. Work is now focused on new railroad tracks on the spans, which should be ready for use in mid-October. Prime contractor Judlau Contracting says the project is 80 to 85 percent complete.

Once rail traffic is switched over to the new bridges the old ones will be demolished. That work should be competed by the end of the year.

The new Ravenswood station will have longer, covered platforms, warming shelters, new lighting, space for a ticket office, vendor space, stairs, and American with Disabilities Act-compliant ramps. Work is being done on the eastern portion and could be complete by next spring.

Metra is planning another round of bridge replacements on the UP-N line after the current project is complete.

Read more articles on rail bridges.