CTA to begin repairs at California Blue Line station

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will close the California Blue Line station for the next 42 days starting tomorrow to allow crews to complete a major renovation project as part of the modernization program for the O'Hare branch of the Blue Line.

Originally opened in 1895, the station will receive substantial improvements to the station house exterior and interior, platform and other station elements, CTA officials said in a press release.

Work includes structural repairs, painting, new platforms, improved lighting, signage and new bike racks. The station's historic features will be preserved and restored. Following completion of the work, the Damen station will receive similar structural and cosmetic repairs.

The California Blue Line station is slated to reopen Oct. 16. The project is part of CTA's "Your New Blue" program to update and improve 13 Blue Line stations, upgrade elevated and subway infrastructure, improve track and signals, and upgrade traction power systems.