Public Encouraged to Comment on CTA Proposed Improvements to Purple Line
On January 27 the CTA held a Public Scoping Meeting in Evanston to highlight their proposed improvements to the Purple Line in Evanston.
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The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is proposing to make improvements, subject to the availability of funding, to the North Red and Purple Lines. The improvements are proposed in order to bring the existing transit stations, track systems and structures into a state of good repair from the track structure immediately north of Belmont station to the Linden terminal (9.5 miles). This project is one part of CTA’s effort to extend and enhance the entire Red Line.
Despite some mistaken media reports, South Blvd. and Foster St. Chicago Transit Agency stations are still under consideration for possible closure under alternatives outlined for Red Purple Line Modernization. It does not necessarily mean that CTA will close the stations, but eliminating these two stops is still part of the discussion under a few of the CTA alternatives. Residents and riders need to contact CTA and let them know how these possible closures will impact their lives.
Additionally, residents should be aware that in a couple of the alternatives CTA proposes ending or limiting Purple Line Express service. Current Purple Line Express service allows CTA trains to skip all 12 stops between Howard and Belmont during peak hours in the AM and PM, allowing riders to cut about 15/20 minutes off the commute. By limiting or eliminating the Express service, CTA alternatives threatens the City of Evanston’s ability to use the Purple Line Express service as a tool for economic development along the corridor, limit expedient reverse commutes and restrict ability of people who exclusively use the “L” to get to and from Chicago. Please contact CTA and let them know how restricting or eliminating Express service will affect your ride.
Residents have only one more week to contact CTA and express their opinion on the future of the Purple Line! 
If you were unable to attend the meeting, residents can still submit comments until February 18, 2011 by mail, e-mail or fax, with attention to: Steve Hands, Strategic Planning & Policy, Chicago Transit Authority, P.O. Box 7602, Chicago, IL 60680-7602, E-mail: RPM@transitchicago.com, Fax: (312) 681-4195.
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