Metra plans new parking lot at Grayland station in Old Irving

by SEAN KEENEHAN

Metra has announced plans to construct a 68-space commuter parking lot and other improvements at the Grayland Station, 3805 N. Kilbourn Ave., on the Milwaukee North Line by the end of 2017.

The Grayland Station currently has eight parking spaces and more than 300 commuters board trains daily at the station, according to Metra. As part of the project, the parking spaces will be added on the east side of Kilbourn Avenue between Milwaukee and Patterson avenues.

In addition to parking spaces, the project will add a retaining wall, sidewalks, curb ramps that are in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, stairs, landscaping, lighting, signage, pavement markings and bicycle racks to the station.

"We understand that our commitment to providing excellent service is not confined to our trains," said Metra executive director Dan Orseno. "This parking lot will improve the experience for our customers who board at Grayland by giving them a place to park other than city streets."

The project is estimated to cost $1.2 million and it will be funded primarily by a federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality grant.

"I’m thrilled that Metra is moving forward with this needed improvement, creating a greater opportunity for residents to take transit in our community," said Alderman John Arena (45th). "This is a great complement to the new Divvy station at Grayland, as well as the multiple bus routes within easy walking distance."

Construction for the project is expected to begin this summer.