Hammond names designer for downtown train station
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The city of Hammond has selected New York-based Alexander Gorlin Architects as the designer for its new downtown train station. The $10 million station is being built as part of the South Shore Line’s West Lake Corridor extension.
The price tag for the project covers the station design, construction of the platform, and the development of a public square to the west of the rail line, the city said in a news release.
Anne Taylor, executive director of planning and development for the city, said Jeff Speck, who authored the city’s 2019 Downtown Master Plan, will be assisting with the station design as the lead designer.
“Having Jeff on board creates continuity for our downtown revitalization, helping the City create a cohesive and walkable downtown,” Taylor said in the release. “Hammond is taking advantage of this opportunity to create more than a train station. We want to build an innovative and welcoming space for our residents and visitors to not only pass through with comfort and interest, but also pause and really take the space in.”
The $945 million West Lake Corridor extension brings the South Shore Line from Gary about eight miles south to Dyer, with several stops along the way. The project is slated for completion next May.
“This is an important step for the revitalization of downtown Hammond,” said Mayor Tom McDermott. “This station was not originally slated for a stop on the the West Lake line, but we worked with NICTD to find the best location in downtown for it. We are looking forward to beginning construction as soon as ridership begins next spring.”
The Hammond train station project is being funded with $2.8 million from the state’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative, or READI. The remainder is being covered by the city’s recently approved 1% food and beverage tax.
The city expects construction to be complete in August 2026.