Metra Begins Major 2026 Overhaul, Including $337M Bridge Rebuild Project

A major transformation is underway for Chicago’s commuter rail system.

Metra has officially kicked off a systemwide 2026 construction program, one of its most ambitious infrastructure efforts in years. The initiative includes rebuilding 11 century-old rail bridges, upgrading stations, and modernizing critical components across all 11 lines.

At the center of the plan is a $337 million project to replace aging bridges along the Union Pacific North Line, some of which date back more than 120 years.

A Long-Awaited Bridge Replacement Project

The headline project focuses on rebuilding 11 rail bridges, many of which have been in service since the early 1900s.

These structures have long been identified as part of Metra’s backlog of critical infrastructure needs, and replacing them is expected to improve both safety and long-term reliability along one of the system’s busiest corridors.

Bridge work of this scale is rare, and the investment signals a shift toward addressing long-deferred upgrades that impact daily service.

A Systemwide Construction Push

The bridge replacements are just one piece of a much larger effort.

Metra’s 2026 program includes:

Upgrades to 20 stations, with 47 more currently in the design phase
Replacement of 22 rail crossings
Installation of more than 51,000 new railroad ties
Multiple track and signal improvement projects

These upgrades are focused on improving accessibility, safety, and overall system performance, including enhancements to platforms, ramps, parking, and signage.

New Station and Modernization Efforts

Alongside infrastructure repairs, Metra is also advancing plans for new and improved stations, including long-discussed “infill” stations designed to better serve growing neighborhoods.

Signal systems and communications are also being upgraded to provide greater operational flexibility and fewer delays, helping trains run more efficiently across the network.

Metra leadership has emphasized the importance of taking advantage of current funding and construction conditions.

“We plan to take full advantage of the construction season and available funding to address projects across the railroad,” said Jim Derwinski.

He added that while recent funding has helped tackle overdue repairs, infrastructure investment is ongoing:

“Metra is grateful for the significant financial support we have received in recent years to address a backlog of critical capital projects. However, infrastructure maintenance is an ongoing need.”

Also Read: Best Chicago Neighborhoods with Metra Stations

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