CTA Reroutes 8 Bus Lines for State Street Work

Eight CTA bus routes detour around State Street for six weeks due to construction

CTA Reroutes 8 Bus Routes on State Street

Eight Chicago bus routes will detour around State Street for six weeks starting April 13, transit officials said. The Chicago Transit Authority confirmed southbound State Street will close between Wacker and Randolph through May 25, 2026, forcing riders to board at temporary stops. Most affected routes will pick up passengers at State and Washington streets, though the #148 Clarendon/Michigan Express moves to Michigan and South Water.

Construction Prompts Downtown Closure

The closure accommodates construction work in Chicago's downtown Loop area, according to the transit agency. State Street serves as a major north-south corridor through the central business district, carrying thousands of daily bus riders between the Loop and neighborhoods to the south. Officials said northbound service will continue normally during the construction period. The CTA didn't specify what type of construction necessitates the closure or which agency is managing the project.

Temporary Boarding Locations Set

Seven of the eight affected routes will board at the southwest corner of State and Washington streets during the detour period, officials said. The #148 Clarendon/Michigan Express will use a separate temporary stop at Michigan and South Water instead. Officials didn't release a complete list of which specific route numbers are affected beyond the #148. The agency also hasn't said whether the temporary stops will have additional signage or staff to help riders find the new boarding locations.

Six-Week Detour Runs Through May

The reroute takes effect April 13, 2026, and continues through May 25, 2026, transit officials confirmed. The CTA didn't say whether the closure could extend beyond that date if construction runs longer than planned. Officials advised passengers to allow extra travel time during the detour period. The agency typically posts service alerts on its website and at affected stops, though officials haven't specified how far in advance riders will receive notification about the temporary changes.

Riders Face Longer Walks to Stops

Passengers who normally board on State Street between Wacker and Randolph will need to walk to the temporary stops during the construction period. Officials said riders should plan trips accordingly and expect potential delays. The CTA hasn't estimated how much additional time passengers should allow for the detour. Moovit provides real-time updates for CTA bus routes, including temporary stop changes and service alerts throughout the Chicago area.