Google Pays to Move CTA Clark/Lake Entrance in Thompson Center to Clark Street
Renovation Costs Covered by Google’s Subsidiary
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is moving the entrance of the Clark/Lake station, located within the Thompson Center, to the northeast corner of the building on Clark Street. The project, which is expected to be completed by November 2025, will improve the wayfinding and visibility of the station.
Current Entrance Location Buried Under Structure
According to Bill Mooney, the CTA’s chief infrastructure officer, the current entrance is “kind of buried underneath our structure in the middle of Lake Street” and is often hard to see. Moving the entrance to the corner of Clark and Lake puts it at a “very predominant point on the corner,” making it easier for riders to find.
New Entrance Design
The CTA shared conceptual renderings of the proposed Clark/Lake station, showing the new entrance on the corner of Clark and Lake. The rendering, looking east from street level, shows a clear and visible entrance that is easily accessible.
Renovation Costs and Timeline
The renovation costs will be covered by Google’s subsidiary, JRTC Holdings, which runs the building. The new entrance is expected to be completed by November 2025, after which the CTA plans to improve the platform over Lake Street, to be finished in late 2026.
CTA President’s Remarks
CTA President Dorval Carter Jr. expressed excitement about the partnership with Google and the potential for future improvements. He hopes Google can “test out” other improvements “in the area of technology and connectivity” and is looking forward to the completion of the project.
Conclusion
The move of the Clark/Lake station entrance to Clark Street is a significant improvement for riders and will enhance the overall experience of using the station. The project is a testament to the CTA’s commitment to improving its services and partnering with private companies to achieve its goals.
FAQs
Q: Why is the CTA moving the entrance of the Clark/Lake station?
A: The CTA is moving the entrance to improve wayfinding and visibility, making it easier for riders to find the station.
Q: Who is covering the renovation costs?
A: Google’s subsidiary, JRTC Holdings, is covering the renovation costs.
Q: When is the new entrance expected to be completed?
A: The new entrance is expected to be completed by November 2025.
Q: What are the CTA’s plans for the platform over Lake Street?
A: The CTA plans to improve the platform over Lake Street, to be finished in late 2026.
Q: How many riders use the Clark/Lake station each day?
A: The station serves an average of 9,100 riders each weekday.
