Metra upgrades coming to Waukegan station

Metra and the city of Waukegan will combine funds and resources to upgrade the Waukegan train station on the Union Pacific North Line.

Officials said the $530,000 renovation will replace the existing roof, partially repair and paint the ceiling, partially remove and replace the floor tiles, and renovate two entrance vestibules.

In addition, a new ADA-accessible ramp is being constructed, along with a new bus shelter complete with solar panels and lights.

Finally, existing fence will be replaced by a taller, decorative fence and a new masonry wall will be partially replaced.

Metra officials said the work is expected to take about four months. Part of the station building will remain open during the renovations, and the work will not affect the train platforms.

"This rehabilitation work will make the Waukegan station a much more welcoming station for riders of our Union Pacific North Line," said Don Orseno, executive director and CEO of Metra. "We are happy to be giving the people of Waukegan and Lake County the station facility that they deserve."

Metra is funding about $481,000 of the work, while Waukegan is kicking in about $49,000.

Orseno and Waukegan Mayor Wayne Motley, Lake County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor and Metra Board Member Norman Carlson announced the renovation during a news conference Monday in Waukegan.

Metra has hired Rasch Construction and Engineering of Kenosha to complete the work.

Lawlor said the renovation is a positive step for needed railway renovations in downtown Waukegan.

"I think this is a very positive step forward as we work collectively to revitalize downtown Waukegan," he said. "I'm truly glad to see Metra is making this investment to upgrade the station with the city of Waukegan."