CHICAGO–State Senator Jacqueline Y. Collins (D-Chicago 16th) has been pushing for a new Metra station on the South Side of Chicago and now commuters will finally get another transportation option.
“The people of Auburn Gresham and adjoining communities deserve this opportunity; the opportunity for job creation, community engagement and economic development,“ Collins said.
Governor Pat Quinn, Ald. Latasha Thomas (17th) Rev. Michael L. Pfleger (Faith Community of St. Sabina), Carlos Nelson (Greater Auburn Gresham CDC), Representatives Mary. E. Flowers (D31) and Andre Thapedi (D32) and Congressman Bobby Rush were some of the people who supported Collins as she announced on Saturday the building of a new Metra stop on the Rock Island Line at the intersection of 79th Street and Fielding St. The line extends from LaSalle Street in Chicago to Joliet. The $21.5 million in state capital funds’ station will connect riders to the 79th St. CTA bus, which is the city’s busiest bus line. Next spring is when construction is expected to begin. This project comes after five years of lobbying, advocating and fighting from Collins.
“Access to transit and economic development are two of the catalysts needed for continued recovery in the neighborhoods I represent,” Collins said.
She said that the station will help bring “economic rebirth” to the community.
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