CHICAGO (CBS) — Construction projects have begun across Chicago – and while they may seem like regular projects, they are actually being accelerated to prepare the city for the Democratic National Convention.
An example of such a project is the new Damen Green Line stop, at Damen Avenue and Lake Street. According to Chicago-L.org, there were stations at Wood Street, Damen Avenue, Oakley Boulevard, and Campbell Avenue when Lake Street ‘L’ opened in 1893, but the Wood Street station lasted only twenty years, and the other three all closed in 1948 and there were no more stops along the 1.5-mile stretch between Ashland and California Avenue.
The new Damen stop is a stone’s throw from the United Center on the west side of the city. City of Chicago Chief Operating Officer John Roberson said the new Damen stop will make a big difference for the DNC – and for everyone in the area.
Although the stop has been under construction for some time, work crews are expanding so that the stop is ready in time for the DNC.
“I want it done yesterday,” Roberson said. “All of these projects are being re-expedited so we can get them done in time for the DNC.”
The new stop on the Green Line is just one part of all the work the city has done (and continues to do) to get the city in tip-top shape.
“We are preparing our city in a way that will give the delegates the very best show possible,” Roberson said. “but it’s also a celebration of Chicago.”
The Chicago Transit Authority said in a news release that the new “L” stop, with a “distinctive modern design,” will be fully accessible to those using mobility aids. It will also be of great convenience to those who live and work near the Kinzie Industrial Corridor, the CTA said.
Construction work on the Damen Green Line stop is being managed by the Chicago Department of Transportation. The estimated cost for the project is $80 million.
Other work the city is accelerating in preparation for the DNC includes improvements along DuSable Lake Shore Drive.
“Because of our location on the waterfront, and because of our location at McCormick Place – where many of our delegates will be – we obviously wanted to make sure that the improvements there would provide effective and efficient transportation to and from all of the locations,” Roberson said.
Roberson said the city is also making improvements to the CTA Blue Line, which is heavily used by people traveling to and from O’Hare International Airports.
Smaller projects are also still in the words…
“We do everything from planting flowers to painting light poles to repairing sidewalks,” Roberson said.
Roberson said all the work, big and small, has been accelerated for the big convention. But he said it will also be better for Chicago in the long run.
“When people ask the question, ‘Is Chicago ready?’” Robrson said. “Yes. We are ready. Are you?”
The DNC kicks off in Chicago on August 19, by which time the city says all projects must be completed.
Tara Molina
