UPDATE: A historic victory for Englewood community advocates as the Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act was signed into law, paving the way for the reopening of the long-closed 63rd and Racine Green Line Station by January 1, 2029. This comes after more than three decades of local activism and persistent calls for improved public transportation in the area.
On Tuesday, Gov. JB Pritzker officially enacted the $1.5 billion funding package aimed at revitalizing public transportation across the region, including critical renovations in Englewood. The Act mandates the newly formed transit authority to “remodel, renovate, or construct” a new station, providing a much-needed boost to a community that has struggled with transportation access since the station’s closure in January 1994.
Community leaders are celebrating this announcement as a significant step toward revitalization. The Go Green On Racine team, which has spearheaded efforts to reopen the station, expressed hope that this development will reignite the community’s spirit and drive further investment in Englewood. “I hope this will encourage leaders to take charge over our communities and motivate people to reinvest in our future,” said Taqi Thomas, associate director of community engagement at the Inner-City Muslim Action Network.
The former station has been a focal point of community frustration for decades. Originally, it was expected to close temporarily, but it never reopened, leaving residents without essential transportation options. The recent legislation is a direct response to years of advocacy, including a successful advisory referendum that garnered overwhelming support from local voters.
In addition to the Green Line station, the Act also includes provisions for the restoration of the CTA Blue Line’s Central station on the Forest Park branch. This broader commitment to public transit is expected to have lasting implications for communities throughout the region.
Recent revitalization efforts have already begun to transform the 63rd Street corridor. Initiatives include the opening of the $5 million Go Green Community Fresh Market and ongoing projects aimed at enhancing local infrastructure. The community is witnessing a resurgence, with new businesses and resources emerging to meet local needs.
The anticipated reopening of the 63rd and Racine station aligns with these efforts, promising to further enhance accessibility and community engagement. “As we continue to be more involved, 63rd and Racine is about to be a corridor to reckon with,” Thomas stated.
The emotional significance of this development cannot be overstated. For many in Englewood, the reopening represents a tangible sign of hope and renewal. “Englewood has a bad reputation by its name, but it has some of the most beautiful and caring people,” Thomas remarked, emphasizing the community’s resilience and potential.
As plans progress, all eyes will be on the CTA and local leaders to ensure the timely execution of these projects. With the community’s backing and state support, Englewood is poised for a transformative journey ahead.
Residents and supporters are encouraged to stay engaged as further updates are expected, and the focus shifts to the practical steps necessary to bring the station back to life. The future of Englewood’s transit and community well-being is in motion, igniting hope for a brighter tomorrow.
