Chicago Fire Department to use Roseland homes near 113th and Princeton for training before demolition due to CTA Red Line extension

CHICAGO (WLS) — Some homes about to be torn down in Chicago became a training ground for firefighters Thursday morning.

The Chicago Fire Department recently had its largest single access to properties for training purposes, providing a valuable chance to prepare for real-life emergencies.

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Firefighters used unoccupied homes slated for demolition for the CTA’s Red Line extension project.

Firefighters and aspiring firefighter trainees in Chicago were able to engage in uncommon hands-on training at the Roseland homes located near 113th Street and Princeton Avenue, just before these structures were due for demolition.

“What’s even more remarkable is that this initiative cost nothing to CFD. I mean absolutely nothing,” CFD Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt said.

The CTA acquired over 60 properties to build the 5.5-mile Red Line extension from 95th Street to 130th Street.

Before contractors take a wrecking ball to the properties, CFD is using 38 of them for training purposes.

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“This practical training in authentic building settings will greatly contribute to our capacity to respond safely and efficiently to fire incidents,” stated Nance-Holt, emphasizing the significance of such realistic exercises.

“It’s very important to us and very important to the community and very important to CFD members,” said Michael Lopina, CTA fire and life safety marshal.

Firefighters conducted search-and-rescue drills; went through mayday scenarios, where firefighters are trapped inside; and pulled down ceilings and walls.

While there were no actual fires, theatrical smoke was used for maximum effect.

“CFD’s first training took place in December 2024, and since then, over 1,000 of our firefighters have had a chance to train at these Red Line extension homes,” Nance-Holt said.

The CTA says the fire department is allowed to continue using the properties over the next three to six months, until they’re torn down.