CTA Reroutes 8 Routes for State Street Work

Eight CTA bus routes detour around State Street construction from April 13 to May 25

CTA Reroutes 8 Bus Routes for State Street Work

Eight Chicago Transit Authority bus routes will detour around downtown construction starting April 13, affecting thousands of daily commuters. The CTA announced the temporary reroutes to accommodate construction work on State Street between Wacker and Randolph through May 25, 2026. Routes #2, #36, #63, and #148 are among those impacted by the closure.

Construction Closes Southbound State Street

Southbound State Street will be closed between Wacker and Randolph for the six-week construction period, transit officials said. The closure affects only southbound traffic, while northbound buses will continue operating on their regular routes without changes. Downtown construction projects typically require temporary street closures to ensure worker safety and allow efficient completion of infrastructure improvements. The CTA classifies this as a planned service change rather than an emergency disruption.

Alternative Boarding Locations Set

Most affected southbound buses can be boarded at the southwest corner of State and Washington during the construction period, the CTA said. The #148 Clarendon/Michigan Express will use a different pickup point at Michigan and South Water instead. Eight routes total will require passengers to board at alternative locations while the construction work continues. Officials advised riders to plan their trips accordingly and allow extra time for their commute, though specific delay estimates weren't provided.

Six-Week Detour Period

The reroutes take effect April 13, 2026, and will remain in place through May 25, 2026, according to the transit agency. The six-week timeline aligns with the planned construction schedule for State Street improvements. Officials said the work requires full closure of the southbound lanes to accommodate construction activities safely.

Riders Should Plan Ahead

Commuters who regularly use the affected routes should expect temporary changes to their boarding locations and may experience slightly longer travel times during the construction period. The CTA's rail lines will continue operating normally, with some planned work on the Blue Line and added service on Purple and Yellow Lines. Moovit provides real-time updates for CTA routes, including temporary stop relocations and detour information.