Construction for the Chicago Transit Authority’s crumbling Red Line South tracks is almost over.
CTA officials said workers are beginning to wrap up construction for the rehab project, and opening day is scheduled for Oct. 20.
The CTA has begun running test trains on the tracks, which will continue to run until the project is complete, according to CTA spokesman Steve Mayberry.
The $425 million project was introduced last yearand closures began May 19. Officials said the Red Line has exceeded its expected lifespan and 40 percent of the 10-mile span is considered a "slow zone." Repairs are expected to reduce commute times by 20 minutes.
The CTA decided to close the entire Dan Ryan section to shorten the length of construction time from four years on weekends to five months in total. Officials said $75 million will be saved by using this method.
An average of 50,000 riders use the south branch of the Red Line each day, according to the CTA.
Workers are also installing elevators at Garfield, 87th and 63rd, making the entire Red Line South stretch handicap accessible, Mayberry said.
The last day of construction is scheduled for Oct. 19, with tracks expected to open a day later.
