Metra breaks ground on Healy Station renovation project

Metra and Illinois officials on Monday gathered to kick off a $7.3 million renovation of the Healy Station on the Milwaukee North Line.

The project calls for building new platforms, canopies, retaining walls and stairs, as well as installing LED lighting. Crews also will build new ramps and shelters with on-demand heat, Metra officials said in a press release.

The new station will be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The renovation project, which is being funded by Metra's share of proceeds from an Illinois bond program, is expected to be completed in a year. John Burns Construction Co. is carrying out the work.

"This renovation project will not only expand economic opportunity in our neighborhood but it will also provide a safe and revamped train station that will better serve riders and improve access to other services like the [Chicago Transit Authority]," said Illinois State Rep. Luis Arroyo, who attended the groundbreaking ceremony.

Each weekday, about 325 passengers use the Healy Station, which is located in Chicago's Hermosa neighborhood.