CHICAGO — Adella Bass decided to forgo in-person college classes due to the challenges of traveling from the far South Side of Chicago, where the elevated train does not reach. For her, it can take nearly two hours to reach the hospital for treatment of a heart condition.
However, there is a silver lining as bold red signs proclaiming “Ready, Set, Soon!” signal an upcoming change. Next year, the city is finally set to fulfill a long-standing promise to link some of its most isolated and underserved neighborhoods to the rest of the city via mass transit.
The Biden administration recently informed Congress of a commitment of $1.9 billion towards a $5.7 billion project to add four new L stations on the South Side, marking the largest expansion in the Chicago transit system’s history. This pledge, anticipated to be finalized before the end of the current presidential term, secures funding for this vital project.
Despite the optimism, concerns linger about potential shifts in priorities under a new administration.
Residents are reassured that the project is progressing, according to Bass, who advocates for health equity in a major public housing development in her area. “But uncertainties remain,” she noted.
The infrastructure plan signed into law in 2021 emphasizes transit funding more than previous administrations. As a result, there has been a rush to finalize grants for transit upgrades across various cities.
Experts indicate that while previous administrations have attempted to divert funding away from transit projects, it is uncommon for completed projects to face cancellations. Ongoing support for transit improvements, particularly in communities like Roseland—once a thriving business area—could help stimulate economic recovery.
Local leaders believe the new station could facilitate positive changes in the community. Advocates for revitalization, including those who have turned their lives around, see the new transit options as a catalyst for improvement.
Business owners in the area, like Ledall Edwards of Edwards Fashions, express hope that improved transportation will attract more customers and businesses back to Roseland.
Community leaders are eager for the transformation. “The community is going to change,” said Rogers Jones, who manages the Youth Peace Center. “It’s going to be vibrant.”
Chicago transit officials have begun preparations for the project, having already secured construction firms and initiated work in the affected neighborhoods. Groundbreaking is scheduled for late 2025.
U.S. Representative Mike Quigley emphasized the resilience of Chicago’s transit system, which has weathered numerous challenges throughout history. He believes that successful infrastructure projects are crucial for fostering opportunities in the future.
