NICTD set to start East Chicago Station platform work next week

Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD) officials last week announced construction will begin soon to add a second entrance and exit at the East Chicago Station platform.

To start April 29 and conclude in December, the project calls for converting the low-level platform on the station's east side into a covered walkway to access a new head house, stairwell and tunnel leading to the eastern parking lot. The upgrades will help accommodate the large influx of South Shore Line passengers at the station, NICTD officials said in a press release.

"Opening the second entrance to our largest station is something we have had as a priority for many years," said South Shore Line President Michael Noland.

AECOM provided engineering design services and Barton Malow Co. will serve as the contractor for the $4.4 million project, which is partially funded by the Federal Railroad Administration.

Other planned projects at the station include head house improvements and the installation of higher-speed switches to allow for faster and more efficient train movements. The track switch work is set to begin next year.