Extension of the Red Line of the Chicago Metro

The project involves a 9 km extension of the Red Line of the Chicago metro, including the construction of four new stations fully accessible to people with reduced mobility. The route notably includes a 6.4 km elevated section. This large-scale project aims to improve access to public transport for historically disadvantaged communities on Chicago’s Far South Side. The consortium, composed of VINCI Construction Grands Projets USA (40%) and Walsh Construction (lead contractor – 60%), is responsible for the design and construction of this infrastructure.

Context

Located in one of the largest metropolises in the United States, the Red Line is a key axis in Chicago’s urban transport network. The southern extension is part of a broader effort to reduce inequalities in access to public transport and to revitalise the city. Through this project, the city aims to offer a fast, efficient, and low-carbon alternative for isolated neighbourhoods and to shorten journey times to the city centre. The project also aligns with the social and environmental ambitions of the Chicago Transit Authority, which initiated the contract.

Technical Aspects

The project includes the design and construction of 9 additional kilometres of line, of which 6.4 kilometres will be built on viaducts. Four new stations will be integrated into the route, designed to meet the highest accessibility standards.
The technical solutions adopted aim to optimise the use of materials, notably by reducing concrete volumes by 14% through more efficient design. Furthermore, half of the concrete used will be low-carbon, reflecting a strong commitment to minimising the environmental footprint of the construction works.

Impact

Around 100,000 additional residents will gain access to a modern, low-carbon public transport network, significantly reducing travel times to central employment areas.
On the social front, the consortium has committed to involving local communities:
• 35% of construction hours will be carried out by individuals from economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods;
• 15% of hours will be allocated to training via apprenticeships and internships;
• 22% of procurement will be made from local micro and small businesses, the DBEs – Disadvantaged Business Enterprises.
By 2040, the line is expected to record over 40,000 journeys per day.

Project Stakeholders

Client:
Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)

Key Figures

Contract value: USD 2.78 billion (EUR 2.49 billion)
Partners: VINCI Construction Grands Projets USA (40%) – Walsh Construction (60%)
Start of preparatory works: 2025
Commissioning: 2030
Line extension: 9 km
Elevated section: 6.4 km
Number of stations: 4 new stations
Ridership target (2040): >40,000 journeys/day

Learn more

cta.org