43rd station
| Company type | Rapid transit station |
|---|---|
| Industry | Public transportation |
| Founded | August 15, 1892 |
| Headquarters | Chicago , United States |
| Products | Transit services |
43rd serves as a stop on the Chicago Transit Authority's 'L' system within Chicago's Grand Boulevard neighborhood. Positioned on the Green Line at 314 E 43rd Street, it lies three blocks east of State Street. This station commenced operations on August 15, 1892, coinciding with the extension of the South Side Elevated Railroad southward to accommodate visitors for the 1893 World Columbian Exposition.
History
The initial design of the station was crafted by Myron H. Church, showcasing a brick building accented with Queen Anne architectural details. Consistent with other stations on the South Side Elevated Railroad, 43rd features two side platforms sheltered by tin canopies.
In July 1959, additional exit stairways were installed to facilitate better passenger movement during busy periods, mirroring improvements made at nearby stations such as Indiana and 47th.
A fire on April 1, 1974, damaged the primary entrance; however, auxiliary exits allowed continued operation until a replacement entrance was completed in 1976. This new entryway incorporated contemporary design elements for that era, including a prominent translucent porthole and large-scale signage within the ticket area.
Although the entrance received modernization, the station retained its original wooden platforms from 1892 until they were replaced during a two-month refurbishment in 1990.
Between 1994 and 1996, during the Green Line's comprehensive renovation, 43rd experienced minor enhancements such as repainting, sealing off the porthole to install elevators, and accessibility upgrades to better serve passengers with disabilities.
The station reopened alongside the Green Line on May 12, 1996, despite some ongoing work. The renovation project concluded with the inauguration of a pedestrian bridge spanning the platforms on February 27, 1997.
Bus connections
- 43 43rd