Green and Pink Line service changes begin October 13, after the Chicago Marathon
The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) are preparing for the temporary closure of the Lake Street Bridge beginning at 2 a.m. Tuesday, October 13, as crews replace the bridge’s west leaf and complete related rail work. Green and Pink Line service changes will begin at 4 a.m. October 13.
Work is scheduled to be complete at 4 a.m. Monday, October 26, 2026.
These service changes will not affect CTA service before or during the October 11 Chicago Marathon.
What customers need to know
Tuesday, October 13, through Friday, October 23: Lake Street Bridge work
- Green Line: Trains will operate between Harlem/Lake and Clinton, and separately between Clark/Lake and the South Side terminals. Shuttle buses will carry customers between Clinton and Clark/Lake. Customers traveling across the affected area should transfer between the train and shuttle bus at those stations.
- Pink Line: Trains will operate between 54th/Cermak and the Racine Blue Line station. Customers traveling to or from downtown can transfer between Pink and Blue Line trains at Racine. Pink Line trains will not operate around the Loop during this period.
CTA will have a comprehensive signage plan to guide customers through the service changes, including signs at station entrances, transfer points and shuttle connections. Customer alerts, train and platform announcements, and printed information will provide additional trip guidance.
CTA information specialists are scheduled to visit Green and Pink Line stations on October 6, 7 and 12, before work begins. Information specialists will also be at Polk, Clinton, Clark/Lake and the Racine Blue Line station on October 13 and 14, as the service changes take effect.
Riders should plan ahead, allow additional travel time and check CTA travel alerts before beginning their trips. Detailed train and shuttle schedules, shuttle stop locations and recommended travel options will be provided before the closure begins.
The work will include:
- Removing the existing west leaf of the Lake Street Bridge.
- Using crane and support barges to remove existing components and position the replacement bridge leaf.
- Stabilizing and aligning the new bridge components.
- Reconstructing CTA rails, ties, guard systems, walkways and associated bridge hardware.
- Reconnecting and testing CTA power and signal systems.
- Operating test trains to confirm proper alignment and readiness before regular service resumes.
Additional information about the construction project and its transportation impacts will be posted at the CDOT project webpage and transitchicago.com/lakebridge.
Media contacts:
CTA Media Relations: 312-681-3090
CDOT Public Affairs: 312-744-0707