Harlem/Lake station
| Company type | Rapid transit station |
|---|---|
| Industry | Public transportation |
| Founded | 1962-10-28 |
| Headquarters | Oak Park / Forest Park , United States |
Area served | Chicago metropolitan area |
| Products | Rapid transit service (Green Line terminus) |
Harlem/Lake, originally introduced as Harlem, functions as a station within the Chicago Transit Authority's 'L' system and marks the northwestern endpoint of the Green Line.
History
The station commenced operations on October 28, 1962, previously identified as Harlem Terminal, replacing earlier Lake Street Elevated stops. The transit line initially reached Oak Park extending to Marion Street in 1901 and was further extended westward beyond Harlem Avenue to Forest Park station by May 20, 1910. Constructed at grade level adjacent to the Chicago & North Western Railroad, this design resulted in frequent pedestrian and wagon accidents due to inadequate crossing safeguards. Harlem station combined the former Forest Park and Marion stops to enhance operational functionality.
Location
Situated at 1 South Harlem Avenue, this station serves as the Green Line’s northwestern terminus. Contrary to its name, Harlem/Lake is positioned at Harlem Avenue and South Boulevard rather than on Lake Street. It is located next to the Oak Park Metra commuter rail station and lies along the border between Oak Park and Forest Park.
Bus and rail connections
- 90 Harlem
- 307 Harlem
- 309 Lake Street
- 313 St. Charles Road
- 318 West North Avenue