State and Lake Station closed for three years for renovations

By Michael Ferguson

Pedestrians walk past the State and Lake Station on Feb. 25, 2026

Pedestrians walk past the State and Lake Station on Feb. 25, 2026

The CTA station at State and Lake Station is closed until 2029 for a renovation of the historic transit hub. Originally built in 1895 as part of the Loop’s first elevated rail line, the 130 year old station is going to be modernized with ADA compliant elevators, a glass canopy, wider platforms and improved safety and lighting features. 

During construction, trains on the Pink, Purple, Green, Orange and Brown line will continue to run but without stopping at State and Lake, eliminating one of the most heavily used transfer stations.

“I wonder if it’ll make other stations more crowded. Rush hour will be even worse,” said Frida Garcia.

According to CTA data, more than 7,700 riders used the State and Lake station on an average weekday in November 2025.

The CTA recommends Clark and Lake or Washington and Wabash stations which are both located within a few blocks of the closed station.

“I hope all the traffic is worth it,” said Isbel Alvarado.

The federally funded project is estimated to cost $444 million while still preserving the historic structure and bringing it up to modern accessibility and safety standards.

Photos by Michael Ferguson