The ribbon was cut on the second of two-brand new bus and rail terminal facilities at 95th Street on Jan. 4, 2019. The opening of the North Terminal was a major milestone in a $280-million project that is building a state-of-the-art 95th/Dan Ryan station on the city's South Side. Photo Credit: Chicago Transit Authority

CHICAGO—The Lightfoot administration and the Chicago Transit Authority are looking to foster new transit-oriented development on eight vacant parcels adjacent to the recently constructed 95th/Dan Ryan Red Line station and bus terminal on the city's South Side.

The initiative announced late last week by the city and the CTA will begin with a series of community meetings, which will be announced in coming weeks.

"Today represents an important step towards working directly with Chicago's communities to spark development that will provide more places to live, work and shop—all within walking distance of a world-class transportation hub," said Samir Mayekar, deputy mayor for neighborhood & economic development. "By driving development that is truly inclusive and making the needed investments in our communities, we can build a Chicago that is stronger, fairer and more prosperous than we found it."

As part of the initiative, CTA has engaged the Metropolitan Planning Council to begin exploring concepts for Transit-Oriented Development on the eight vacant parcels along State Street north of 95th Street that were acquired as part of the $280-million reconstruction of the 95th Street terminal.

"The new 95th Street station was conceived not only as an important transit hub, but also as a new landmark and anchor for the community," said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. "This station can be a catalyst for neighborhood improvements, and this TOD process will ensure that the community has an important say in the outcome."

In partnership with MPC, a community-driven process, called a Corridor Development Initiative, will seek community input on possible future development. Following the CDI process, CTA will develop a request for proposals from potential developers, reflecting the outcomes of the planning process, including community desires and feasible concepts.

"The Metropolitan Planning Council is thrilled to partner with CTA on a community-centered planning process at 95th and State Street," said Kendra Freeman, director of Community Development and Engagement at MPC. "Large-scale transit improvements can anchor future investments and invite new development. The 95th Street Red Line station has long been a gateway to the Far South Side, and the surrounding 95th Street corridor boasts incredible assets including Chicago State University, the Woodsen Regional Library, faith-based partners and engaged constituents. Better understanding community member's priorities ensures that the future of this block-long parcel truly serves people's needs and desires, enriching this long-neglected thoroughfare."

Instant Insights /

City Looks to Spark TOD Near Newly Constructed 95th St. Terminal

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