The Red Purple Modernization (RPM) project is moving forward this year with the largest public works project Edgewater has ever experienced. In order to help inform residents on the heavy construction that will largely impact the area, RPM’s contractor will speak at several open houses this week to explain the timeline and scope of the project.

The meetings, which are hosted by the 48th Ward, will introduce Walsh-Fluor DBT who was chosen back in December as the construction company for the RPM project. The company is a fully-integrated joint venture led by Walsh Construction Company II, LLC, in partnership with Fluor Enterprises, Inc. The project’s lead designer is Stantec Consulting Services Inc., supported by EXP U.S. Services Inc., and a host of other subconsultants.

Walsh-Fluor DBT, whose previous work includes the Wilson Station Rehabilitation project, will discuss the modernization of the red line between Ardmore and Leland and how it will impact the community. Those who attend the meetings will learn about projected construction schedules, the company’s plans to minimize significant construction impacts, and give people the opportunity to share feedback.

“This is going to be a significant project in our community for the next 5-7 years,” according to a release by the 48th Ward Office. “The RPM project will be the largest public works project our community sees in a lifetime. While this project will enhance a key asset in our community and serve future generations, during the construction our community will feel significant impacts. Our office is committed to working with neighbors and business owners to collaborate on solutions to the pains of construction.”

The release added that the RPM project within the 48th Ward will:

• Rebuild the Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn and Bryn Mawr stations and add new track viaducts and embankments along the Red/Purple lines between Lawrence and Bryn Mawr.

• Provide faster, smoother rides for customers.

• Allow for wider and longer station platforms. New signal upgrades, this will allow the CTA to add up to 15 Red, Brown and Purple line trains each hour during rush hours.

• Rebuild stations with full ADA Accessibility.

Work is expected to begin in late 2019 and will be completed in 2025. All residents and business owners are encouraged to attend. Kids are welcome. If you have questions about the RPM project and cannot attend the meeting, please email ally@48thward.org.

Here is the list of upcoming open houses:

Meetings for residents
Residents between Foster & Leland         
Wednesday, May 22, 6-8pm
Edge Theater, 5451 N. Broadway
Click here for Facebook event

Residents between Ardmore & Foster
Thursday, May 23, 6-8pm
St. Ita’s Church, 5500 N. Broadway
Click here for Facebook event

Meetings for businesses
Businesses from Foster to Leland           
Tuesday, May 21, 9-11am
Somerset Place, 5009 N. Sheridan

Businesses from Ardmore to Foster
Thursday, May 23, 9-11am
St. Ita’s Church, 5500 N. Broadway