CTA Red and Purple Line Modernization Program

Client: Chicago Transit Authority

Location: Chicago, IL, U.S.

Map showing the location of CTA Red and Purple Line Modernization Program

Executive Summary

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) selected the joint venture team of Fluor and Walsh Construction Company to design and build Phase One of the Red and Purple Line Modernization Program. On award, the $2.1 billion project was the largest capital project in CTA’s history, ultimately resulting in expanded capacity and improved infrastructure along the region’s most used rail lines.

The project has involved building new elevated tracks along a 1.9-mile section in Chicago, including new bridges, support structures and modernizing existing tracks. Four of the CTA’s busiest stations have been replaced, and a grade-separated flyover bypass for the Brown Line at Clark Junction has been built. A new higher capacity digital signaling system, supplied by Hitachi, has also been installed to increase throughput.

Client's Challenge

The Red and Purple Lines serve customers in some of the densest neighborhoods in Chicago, and weekday rush period ridership increased nearly 40% over a five-year period. The modernization program will allow the lines to accommodate more riders, improving mobility in the area.

Additionally, most tracks and bridges are nearly 100 years old. Upgraded infrastructure will reduce the need for frequent repairs and maintenance that disrupt service.

Fluor's Solution

Fluor and Walsh, along with designer Stantec Consulting Services and Hitachi, the signaling supplier, have brought decades of industry megaproject and transit experience to this massive program, delivering state-of-the-art services, improved quality, safety and reliability and an upgraded customer experience.

The project has improved access by creating Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant platforms and stations. The installation of the new digital signal system on 23 track miles will further enhance train flow and service reliability.

Electrical installation and commissioning services were provided by our subcontractor, Meade.

Conclusion

Fluor and Walsh broke ground on the Red and Purple Line Modernization Phase One Project in October 2019. The project achieved its Substantial Completion Certificate on May 16, 2026, with final completion planned for mid-November 2026.

In 2021, the Walsh-Fluor team received the DBE Innovator of the Year Award from the Federation of Women Contractors for its Building Small Business Program, which has secured more than $5.5 million in loans for small businesses since January 2020. In May 2026 the project was presented with an Outstanding project Award by the Chicago Association of Subcontractors & Affiliates.