Chicago Route 66 Adapts to Street Work
CTA Route 66 detours via Augusta Boulevard due to Chicago Avenue closure between Damen and Western
CTA Route 66 Reroutes on Chicago Avenue
Chicago Transit Authority's Route 66 bus is temporarily rerouted due to a street closure on Chicago Avenue between Damen and Western Avenues, officials said Thursday. The change affects westbound and eastbound service on one of the city's bus routes, though officials haven't said how many daily riders are impacted. The CTA classified the disruption as high severity and began the reroute January 9.
Street Closure Prompts Service Change
The reroute stems from a street closure on Chicago Avenue between Damen and Western Avenues, according to the transit agency. CTA regularly issues service alerts for temporary reroutes due to street closures, construction, and other operational needs throughout its 129-route system. Officials didn't provide details about the specific nature of the street closure or what work is being performed. The agency operates 1,864 buses that provide approximately 1.6 million rides on an average weekday across Chicago and 40 surrounding suburbs.
Buses Follow Alternate Path
Westbound Route 66 buses now travel via Chicago Avenue, Damen Avenue, Augusta Boulevard, and Western Avenue to bypass the closure, officials said. Eastbound buses follow the reverse path using Western, Augusta, Damen, and Chicago. The detour adds several turns to what's normally a straight east-west route along Chicago Avenue. Officials haven't released information about whether the reroute adds significant travel time for riders or affects schedule reliability.
No Timeline for Normal Service
The CTA hasn't announced when normal service will resume on Route 66. Transit officials described the change as temporary but didn't provide a specific end date for the reroute. The duration likely depends on completion of street work, though officials didn't say what agency is responsible for the closure or what project is underway. The CTA typically provides advance notice before returning routes to normal operations.
Riders Advised to Plan Ahead
Passengers who regularly use Route 66 should allow extra time for their commutes and check for updates before traveling, transit officials said. The high-severity classification indicates riders may experience changes to usual travel patterns along the affected segment. Moovit provides real-time updates for CTA routes including current service alerts and alternate travel options. Officials said riders should expect the temporary routing to remain in effect until the street closure is resolved.
