Transport Red-Purple Modernization (RPM)

Project Highlights

• Provided signal, track, systems integration, and drainage design services.
• Developed track alignments, signal layouts, and closed-deck drainage systems.
• Coordinated design solutions with CTA and project construction teams.

Project Description

The Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) Program is the largest capital improvement project in CTA history. The program is focused on improving service reliability, reducing congestion, and increasing capacity along one of the region’s busiest transit corridors. Phase I includes a new Brown Line flyover north of Belmont Station, along with reconstruction and modernization of track and stations between Lawrence and Bryn Mawr.

The project team provided signal, system integration, track, and drainage design services. Signal and track design included equipment layouts, track alignments, profiles, and special trackwork, with coordination across multiple disciplines to address design conflicts and constructability challenges.

Drainage services included closed-deck drainage design, underground drainage systems, and stormwater permitting support. The team also participated in a Mentor-Protégé Partnership focused on the training and development of rail engineering professionals, contributing to a major investment that will improve transit operations and the rider experience throughout the Chicago region.

Work performed by 2IM Group, now part of MacKay.