11/30/06
In anticipation of this season's first winter storm, CTA is reminding customers to allow extra travel time and dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
"We want to remind customers that our buses contend with the same traffic conditions as other vehicles and the weather can also impact rail service. If snow and ice build up on the third rail it prevents power from getting to the train," said CTA President Frank Kruesi. ?Bad weather often drives additional customers to CTA which can mean more crowded buses, platforms and trains. We welcome everyone who opts for public transit in bad weather, but advise them to be prepared and allow extra travel time and dress appropriately."
During inclement weather CTA has staff report earlier and stay later to provide assistance to customers and to help keep stations and facilities clear of snow and ice.
CTA completed its standard winter preparation process in the fall to update the winter plan and prepare facilities and vehicles for winter weather. CTA buses undergo a 30-point winter preparation checklist that includes making sure heaters work, and that doors and windows close securely.
Trains are equipped with sleet scrapers and snowplow blades to remove ice and snow from the third rail. In addition, CTA has four snow fighter locomotives to clear tracks of ice and snow.
Crews also inspect and activate overhead heating fixtures on platforms at all 125 outdoor rail stations so that customers can stay warm, and restock sand boxes so there are supplies at the ready to keep stairs, platforms and bus areas safe for customers and employees.
# # #