Intermodal facility construction breaks ground at Chicago O'Hare

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel broke ground on a new intermodal facility at Chicago O'Hare International Airport on Thursday, which will combine rental car space and public parking into a multi-level facility aimed at reducing traffic in nearby areas. 

The project is a part of a $782 million capital improvement project.

“This intermodal facility is one of the largest capital improvements to be constructed at O’Hare, and will further Chicago’s ongoing efforts to make O’Hare the most convenient international travel hub in the world,” Emanuel said. “This project will serve as a model for new transportation development by delivering improved efficiency, environmental sustainability, a great experience for travelers and an opportunity to create thousands of new jobs for Chicagoans.”

The construction project will create more than 3,000 temporary positions, with 100 permanent positions  added upon completion, which is expected in 2018.

“Travelers using O’Hare will enjoy a more convenient experience as they travel to, from and through our airport,” First Deputy Commissioner of Chicago Department of Aviation Michael Boland said. “It will be easier to park or rent a car from our new facility, as well as take advantage of the improved customer amenities and concessions.”