UPDATE: In a groundbreaking move for Englewood, Illinois, the long-closed Racine Green Line station is set to reopen by January 1, 2029, following the signing of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act by Gov. JB Pritzker. This comes as part of a historic $1.5 billion funding package aimed at revitalizing public transportation across the region.
Community advocates are celebrating this monumental decision, which promises to revive a vital transit link that has been dormant for over 30 years. The 63rd and Racine station, which closed in January 1994, was only intended to be temporarily shuttered. Its permanent closure marked a significant loss for the Englewood community, which has fought tirelessly for its return.
The new legislation mandates the reconstruction of a station within the Englewood area, as outlined in the Transit Authority Act (SB 2111). Additionally, the act includes plans for the restoration of the CTA Blue Line’s Central station on the Forest Park branch, further enhancing transit access for local residents.
Community organizers, part of the Go Green On Racine initiative, have played a pivotal role in advocating for this project. Led by local groups such as Teamwork Englewood and the Inner-City Muslim Action Network, they have garnered overwhelming community support, including collecting 1,000 signatures for an advisory referendum on the 2023 ballot. The results showed clear backing for reopening the station, reflecting the community’s desire for improved transit options.
The push for the station’s reopening has also seen financial backing, as the former U.S. Representative Bobby Rush allocated $2 million for a feasibility study on the project. While the total cost of the renovation remains uncertain, estimates suggest it could reach upwards of $100 million.
Taqi Thomas, associate director of community engagement for the Inner-City Muslim Action Network, expressed the significance of this development, stating, “When the CTA closed the 63rd and Racine station, they ‘killed the hope of our community.’” He emphasized that the new transit bill demonstrates a commitment from state leaders to invest in Englewood, reigniting hope among residents for a brighter future.
The revival of the Racine station is expected to complement ongoing revitalization efforts along the 63rd Street corridor. Recent projects include the $5 million Go Green Community Fresh Market and the transformation of a building into a $7.1 million dining destination, showcasing a renewed focus on community investment.
As the Go Green On Racine team envisions the redesigned station, Thomas hopes for a facility that reflects the vibrancy and resilience of Englewood. “Englewood has a bad reputation, but it is home to some of the most beautiful and caring people,” he noted. “This station can symbolize the community’s potential and growth.”
Residents and officials alike are now looking forward to what the future holds as construction begins on the Racine Green Line station. With public transportation access a critical component of community development, this project could significantly enhance connectivity for Englewood residents.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Englewood prepares for a transformative era in public transit.
