Homewood Metra station debuts new accessibility features after $21 million renovation

After nearly two years of work, the Homewood Metra station renovation is complete, increasing ADA accessibility and breathing new life into the 100-plus-year-old station.

The eastern entrance — the final portion of the 20-month, $21 million project — reopened to riders Monday. Much of the station, which serves Amtrak, Metra and Pace, opened to the public in May, though a new elevator and other accessibility features weren’t finished until this month.

Homewood Village President Rich Hofeld said new residential buildings, shops and restaurants have opened in the area around the station as it was being renovated.

“Homewood is excited to open the facility and reconnect the commuters to downtown Homewood,” Hofeld said in a news release.

The east head house was made more accessible with a new ramp, wind breaks, warming house and gatehouse, as well as a renovated platform.

The tunnel, built in 1911, also has new drainage, ventilation, lighting and interior finishes, as well as new stairs and elevators connecting it to the platform. A new space for Pace buses — with three bus bays, a covered waiting area, and driver facilities — also was added.

The project was paid for with local, state and federal funds, though the bulk of the money came from Amtrak, to ensure it was complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“Our region’s riders deserve world-class public transportation, including accessible, safe and comfortable stations,” said Regional Transportation Authority Board Chair Kirk Dillard. “The redeveloped Homewood Metra station is a shining example of what is possible when agencies work together.”