Construction of Landscaped Pedestrian Plaza

Beginning Monday, April 15, the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) will begin construction of a landscaped pedestrian plaza at the northeast corner of 35th Street and State Street. Work will extend along the north side of 35th Street from State Street, past the CTA Green Line entrance, to the southwest corner of De La Salle Institute (high school).

The construction of the plaza is anticipated to last approximately eight weeks, depending on weather. Pedestrian access to the CTA Green Line will be maintained throughout construction and the westbound 35th Street bus stop (Route# 35) will temporarily relocate west of State Street, outside IIT Tower. During construction, 35th Street will remain open to general traffic in both directions. Vehicle entrances to Illinois Tech parking will not be disrupted, but the pedestrian gate at the corner of 35th and State may be closed briefly. The pedestrian gate to the north, midway along the length of the visitor lot, will not be affected.

The infrastructure improvements are part of a federally funded Walk to Transit package that will improve pedestrian safety and accessibility for those using the 35th-Bronzeville-IIT CTA Station. The project will make a significant improvement to the south entrance of Mies Campus, adding multiple trees and other greenery to the area and improving the safety of the street crossing. For additional information or questions, please call 312.744.5900 or email cdotnews@cityofchicago.org.

Weekly updates will be provided via Illinois Tech Today. For the week of April 15:

  • Monday—Access to the two right turn lanes on westbound 35th Street and portion of the right westbound through lane on 35th Street will be blocked for set up and demolition of curb and median. There will be no pay parking next to De La Salle Institute. Barricades will be set up to indicate walking path to the CTA Green Line. he CTA bus stop on westbound 35th Street will be relocated to immediately west of State Street.
  • Tuesday through Thursday—Sawcutting and removal of sidewalks, asphalt, concrete median, and curbs will begin along with the installation of the storm sewer that runs from State Street to 35th Street.
  • Friday—Work continues along with installation of electrical conduits for lights.