Bus shuttle to supplement service as crews perform scheduled track maintenance work
As part of CTA’s ongoing efforts to improve track conditions and eliminate slow zones, Brown Line service between the Kimball and Western stations will be temporarily suspended beginning 2 a.m. Saturday, August 16 until 4 a.m. Monday, August 18. Brown Line trains will operate normally between Western and the Loop.
CTA crews will replace deteriorated wooden rail ties, tie plates and other track materials on the span of elevated track over the North Branch of Chicago River to create a smoother, more reliable ride for customers.
During this time, free bus shuttles will operate as a substitute for rail service making stops in both directions at the Western and Kimball stations, and the #81 Lawrence bus stops on Lawrence at Rockwell, Sacramento, and Kedzie.
Customers are strongly encouraged to allow 15-20 minutes of extra travel time when traveling the Brown Line this weekend.
For customers traveling to/from weekend events, including the annual Air & Water Show or the Albany Park World Festival, the CTA will operate longer trains. Trains will operate every 10 minutes during peak travel times.
To help decrease t ravel times and reduce lines at rail stations during the return trip, the CTA recommends that customers either load transit value or unlimited ride passes (1-day, 3-day, 7-day and 30-day) to their Ventra farecard at rail stations, online or at more than 1,300 local retailers ahead of time or purchase a 1-day unlimited ride Ventra ticket. Customers can also pay their fares with their personal contactless debit or credit cards. All Brown Line stations will remain open to allow customers access to fare vending machines.
Normal train service will be restored in time for the Monday morning rush period.
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