An 'L' train speeding through the Red-Purple Modernization Project logo

Red and Purple Modernization Phase One Project

As one of CTA’s largest transit investments, the Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Phase One Project has modernized public transportation for our riders while strengthening communities and stimulating inclusive economic growth.

Learn more about RPM 

Learn about what's planned for under the new elevated tracks between Lawrence and Ardmore: Read the "Designing the Under 'L" Experience: A Public Space Activation Framework" Report

Yes, RPM includes Transit Oriented Development! Read our recent press release about what's going on and visit our project archives for TOD studies and more.

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Train on the bypass

Stay up to date on construction impacts.

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While the stations are open and tracks are in service, there is still some construction remaining. Get just the updates important to you by selecting your zone and nearest station. 

 

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Community spaces under the ‘L’

As an enhancement to the RPM Phase One Project, CTA removed the century-old embankment structure and walls, creating more than one mile of open space underneath the new tracks in Uptown and Edgewater. Removal of the wall presented an exciting opportunity for these neighborhoods: new space for the community to enjoy. Work is planned to begin in Spring 2026 and end in Fall 2026.

Learn more about these spaces 

Community space under the train tracks
A construction worker carrying lumber.

Workforce and DBE small business opportunities

Creating a better Chicago for everyone.

Learn more about workforce and business support on RPM 

Red and Purple Modernization Next Phases Study

With RPM Phase One construction wrapping up, CTA is moving ahead on the multi-year process to initiate the next phase of the RPM program. The RPM Next Phases Planning Study is the first step of the planning process that will set goals and objectives, engage the public, identify potential projects, and evaluate alternatives and phasing.

About the RPM Next Phases Planning Study 
Signs for Howard and 95th/Dan Ryan

Red Ahead

Red Ahead wordmark

RPM is part of Red Ahead, a comprehensive initiative for maintaining, modernizing, and expanding Chicago’s most-traveled rail line.

Learn more about Red Ahead 

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