Demolition Of Lakeview Buildings To Begin For CTA Flyover Project

CHICAGO, IL — The demolition of buildings in Lakeview is set to begin this week for CTA's "flyover" project. The elevated structure will improve train service in the area, CTA officials said. Ten buildings are scheduled to be demolished by the Cubs opening day April 9.

A new section of Brown Line track will be built over the Red and Purple Lines north of the Belmont station. Project construction won't begin until next year.

The CTA plans to demolish 14 buildings in the area for the project. The "flyover" is part of the city's $2.1 billion Red and Purple Modernization Program, the largest capital improvement project in CTA history.

"This major initiative will completely rebuild the nearly century old North Red Line from Belmont to Howard and the Purple Line from Belmont to Linden in Wilmette," CTA posted on its website. "As we rebuild, much needed capacity will be added in this growing residential corridor to accommodate current and future riders, and to deliver faster and smoother rides with less crowding and more frequent service."

Construction for the flyover is expected to start in late 2019. Some Lakeview residents have opposed the project, and went on social media to rally others against it. They said the project will hurt the character of the neighborhood.

Main images via Google Maps/Streetview