This morning, Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) joined with La Grange Village President Tom Livingston, Metra CEO Don Orseno, state and city officials, and other interested business leaders and community members to cut the ribbon on the village’s newly renovated Metra station at Stone and Burlington Avenues.  Village President Livingston thanked Lipinski for his commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in the district.  He said this much needed update would not have been possible without Lipinski securing a $700,000 earmark for the $1.15 million project back in 2009.

“This is a great day for the Village of La Grange as it continues to prosper while maintaining strong ties to its historic past,” said Rep. Lipinski.  “Seeing this beautiful, historic local landmark finally restored, I am very happy to have been able to bring the money home to make it possible.  As a strong supporter of public transportation, it is great to see this restoration combined with the addition of several user-friendly modern enhancements that will benefit the over one thousand daily commuters that make this one of the busiest stations on the Burlington Northern line.”

“Stone Avenue Station is very important to La Grange and surrounding communities,” said La Grange Village President Tom Livingston.  “Thanks to Congressman Lipinski, the village can continue to build on its image as a transit oriented community.  We’re looking forward to making additional upgrades to the area around the station in the coming months and years.”

Designed by local architect John Tilton, built in 1901, and designated a local landmark by the La Grange Area Historical Society in 1971, the station slowly deteriorated over time, making a comprehensive renovation necessary.  The Village of La Grange, Metra, and BNSF Railway collaborated on the project.  After years of delays, construction officially began last fall.  The new facility includes a careful and historically respectful rehabilitation of the structure, accessibility upgrades, the addition of a "kiss and ride" area, and improved bicycle facilities. 

Congressman Lipinski is the senior member from the state on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.