Open House At Newly Restored Lake Forest Train Station

From the City of Lake Forest: City officials and project supporters gathered on Monday, June 4 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the east side of the historic train station, officially re-opening the main depot building.

The $3.1 million renovation of the station located in the City’s historic central business district was completed in several stages, beginning with a reconstruction of the roof in 2012. In 2016, the exterior of the building was restored, and the following year restrooms relocated and expanded to the south end of the building. This past week, final touches were put on the renovation of the main lobby made possible through a public-private-partnership with the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation, a local non-profit agency dedicated to protecting the historic character of Lake Forest. This milestone culminated nearly seven years of construction and closures at the station.

Nearly $2.1 million in funding for the project came from the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP), a federal grant program that provides funding for community based projects that expand and enhance transportation experiences within communities. Additional funding was provided by The City of Lake Forest, Metra and the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation.

“We are grateful to our generous members and donors who have supported this project and to the City for partnering with us to preserve this great train station. This renovation exemplifies the Foundation’s mission of preservation of the historical visual character as well as recognizing and educating the public about the integrity, excellence and strong history of architecture in Lake Forest,” says Jim Opsitnik, President of the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation.

Mayor Robert Lansing stated the project was yet another remarkable community effort to work in harmony to restore a community asset that is enjoyed by so many. He added, “Today, we celebrate the perseverance of the community, our transportation partners, and recognize the Preservation Foundation dedicating many years to restoring the building to its original glory.”

To celebrate the re-opening, the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation will be hosting an open house from 1-3 pm on Sunday, June 10, at the station. Tours of the newly completed restoration and former operational tunnel will be completed and light refreshments will be served. The event is free and open to the public, but RSVPs to office@lfpf.org are appreciated.

Photo courtesy of the City of Lake Forest