CTA Reroutes #49 Western Buses Around Blockage

CTA reroutes #49 Western buses via 59th, Damen, and 55th due to blockage at 57th Street

CTA Reroutes #49 Western Buses Due to Blockage

Chicago's #49 Western bus route is running on a detour in both directions due to a street blockage near Western Avenue and 57th Street, transit officials said. The reroute began Friday, April 17, at 12:26 a.m., with no end date announced. The CTA said passengers should expect minor delays and allow extra travel time.

Street Blockage Forces Service Modification

The detour became necessary after a street blockage developed at the Western Avenue and 57th Street intersection, according to the transit agency. Officials didn't specify what caused the blockage or provide details about the nature of the obstruction. The CTA routinely reroutes buses around construction, utility work, street repairs, and other obstacles that make normal routes impassable. The agency said the modification is part of ongoing efforts to maintain service while addressing infrastructure challenges.

Buses Detour Via 59th, Damen, and 55th Streets

Northbound and southbound buses are traveling via Western Avenue, then turning onto 59th Street before using Damen Avenue and 55th Street to return to Western Avenue, officials said. The detour adds several blocks to the normal route pattern. Officials didn't say how much additional travel time riders should expect or how many trips are affected daily. The #49 Western typically runs along Western Avenue, one of Chicago's longest north-south corridors, serving neighborhoods from Howard Street to 79th Street.

No Timeline Set for Normal Service Return

The CTA listed the reroute's end date as to be determined, with no estimate provided for when buses will return to their regular route. Officials said they'll continue the detour until the street blockage is cleared. The agency didn't say whether the blockage involves emergency repairs, planned construction, or another issue requiring extended street closure.

Riders Advised to Check for Updates

Passengers using the #49 Western should allow extra time for their trips while the detour remains in effect, transit officials said. The CTA said it's providing real-time updates about the service change through multiple channels. Riders can check Moovit for current route information and trip planning that accounts for the temporary detour affecting Western Avenue service near 57th Street.