Chicago will spend $86 million in repair work to transform century-old stations along the rail line that forms the backbone of the city's transit system.

The money, nearly all of which comes from federal funds, will go to fix seven stations along the Red Line's northern stretch. Viaducts are missing chunks of concrete, stairs and support columns are badly rusted from water leaks, bulkheads are corroded and crumbling ceilings are pock marked with holes.

Improvements will include everything from new station doors, windows and turnstiles, to the replacement of platforms, tracks and lighting. More security cameras will be installed.