CTA Adjusts Route 125 for Bridge Maintenance

CTA #125 bus reroutes through Jefferson, Washington, Franklin streets until November 2027

CTA Reroutes #125 Bus for Bridge Work

Chicago's #125 Water Tower Express will take a detour through downtown for more than two years while crews work on a key bridge over the Chicago River. The Chicago Transit Authority said northbound buses will use Jefferson, Washington, and Franklin streets starting October 6, 2025, before returning to their regular route on Orleans. Southbound service won't change, officials said.

Bridge Maintenance Drives Long-Term Detour

The reroute stems from maintenance work on the Lake Street bridge over the Chicago River, according to the transit agency. Officials said the work requires the extended detour through November 26, 2027. Bridge maintenance projects in Chicago typically involve structural repairs, repainting, and mechanical system upgrades to ensure safe operation over the river. The CTA didn't specify which components of the Lake Street bridge will be addressed during the two-year maintenance period.

Downtown Streets to Carry Rerouted Service

Northbound #125 buses will leave their normal route and travel via Jefferson Street to Washington Street, then use Franklin Street before rejoining the regular route on Orleans, transit officials said. The detour adds several blocks to the northbound journey through the Loop. Officials advised riders to allow extra travel time during the reroute period. The agency didn't provide estimates for how much additional time the detour might add to typical trips.

Two-Year Timeline Set for Route Change

The reroute takes effect Monday, October 6, 2025, at 9:00 AM and will remain in place through Friday, November 26, 2027, according to the CTA. The nearly 26-month timeline reflects the extended nature of the bridge maintenance project. Officials said passengers should plan for the detour to be in effect throughout this period, though the agency didn't say whether any temporary suspensions of the reroute might occur during the construction timeline.

Riders Can Track Service Changes

The #125 Water Tower Express serves downtown Chicago and Near North Side neighborhoods, connecting riders to major employment and retail destinations. Officials said southbound buses will continue operating on their normal route throughout the maintenance period. Moovit provides real-time updates for CTA routes, helping riders navigate service changes and plan trips during construction-related detours.