Chicago Restored Historic Racine Blue Line Sign

The CTA installed a replica 1950s-style sign at the newly renovated Loomis Street station entrance.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in African-American

Screen-print poster illustration of a mid-century transit station entrance with glass and aluminum architectural details, evoking historic Chicago transit design. — The Chicago Transit Authority completed accessibility upgrades at the Racine Blue Line station, featuring a restored 1950s-era facade at the Loomis Street entrance. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Chicago Transit Authority has completed accessibility upgrades at the Racine Blue Line station on the Near West Side. The project included the installation of a new, LED-powered sign that mimics the aesthetic of the original 1958 station design.

Why it matters

The restoration ensures that the historic 1950s architecture of the Loomis Street entrance is preserved for future generations. This initiative aligns with requirements from the Illinois State Historic Preservation Office to maintain the station as a landmark structure.

The new signage uses modern LED tubing to replicate original neon designs from 1958. The reconstruction project was held to Americans with Disabilities Act standards throughout the year-long construction.

The players

Chicago Transit Authority

This agency oversees the operation and maintenance of the public transportation network across the city of Chicago.

Illinois State Historic Preservation Office

This state body works to protect and document landmark sites and historic architecture across Illinois.

HNTB

This infrastructure firm collaborated with the transit agency on the technical design and energy-efficient lighting integration.

The details

The CTA used historic photo references and 1950s architectural plans to recreate the original glass and aluminum front. The project also included the restoration of period-accurate CTA-logo door handles at the entrance located along the Eisenhower Expressway.

The Congress Line first began operation in 1958.
The Congress Line was officially renamed the Blue Line in 1993.
The CTA rebuilt the Racine Avenue entrance from mid-2023 to October 2025.
The Loomis Street entrance finally reopened to the public in October 2026.

Roadmap

This project reflects a broader trend of transit agencies balancing historical preservation with modern infrastructure needs. It demonstrates how aging urban rail systems can successfully integrate updated accessibility standards while honoring their original architectural heritage.

Residents in the Near West Side now have access to a fully modernized entrance that complies with current safety and accessibility standards. Commuters will see updated signage that provides clear transit information while maintaining the neighborhood's historic character.

The takeaway

Public transit infrastructure can evolve to meet modern needs without sacrificing the visual history of a neighborhood. This project shows how historic restoration can be achieved by utilizing energy-efficient technology to mimic period-correct materials.