As any Loop resident will attest, the tunnel between the Jackson Red & Blue line CTA stations leaves much to be desired. What can be done to improve it?
GoArchitect took personal experience and input from fellow locals to create a new vision for the Jackson Station transfer tunnel.
This case study is available for future expansion and study.
As any Loop resident will attest, the tunnel between the Jackson Red & Blue line CTA stations leaves much to be desired. The tunnel is long, narrow, poorly lit, and often has a suspicious blend of smells. Despite these conditions, Jackson station is an important transportation node in Chicago with an estimate 950,000+ passengers passing through it every year.
With this in mind, we asked the community how they would improve the entire experience. Working within the physical boundaries of the existing tunnel structure, is it possible to improve the space’s environment, enhance traveler’s experience, and foster a sense of safety and placemaking?
Using Engage, we surveyed approximately 16 different groups or individuals. Respondents were asked to place a sticky note on an image of the Jackson Station transfer tunnel and identify, "What improvements would you like to see made to the Jackson Station Transfer Tunnel?"
From this community input we gathered several key themes: lighting, cleanliness, and a lack of visual interest.
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From this community input, we designed a potential solution that seeks to make the transfer tunnel into a more enjoyable commuter experience.
The transformed tunnel would feature larger artwork areas, enhanced lighting, and an entirely new ceiling mosaic. Each element would work together to make the space feel bigger, safer, and more pleasant.
The entryway to the tunnels would feature unique lighting and far-wall mosaics that seek to create a more Chicago branded space.
We would introduce better air filtration systems with decorative air supply ducts. These ducts would also include hidden LEDs to light the ceiling mosaic. The ceiling lighting would be designed to create illuminated arches that help to break up the long linear space.
If possible, a "green" air filtration system would also be added to one side of the wall.
While this case study is only an academic exploration of what is possible, we hope it serves as a spark of inspiration for future commuter spaces in Chicago. If you have a design challenge that needs a strong vision to create buy-in from partners and the community, contact us below.