CTA Reroutes Express Buses Around State/Lake Work
CTA reroutes northbound #146 and #148 express buses via Wacker Drive due to State/Lake work
CTA Reroutes Express Buses for State/Lake Work
Two Chicago express bus routes are taking detours around downtown construction, affecting northbound riders on the #146 Inner Lake Shore/Michigan Express and #148 Clarendon/Michigan Express. The Chicago Transit Authority rerouted the buses starting Wednesday, August 20, at 9:00 AM due to construction at the State/Lake intersection, transit officials said. Southbound service on both routes continues operating normally.
Construction Prompts Downtown Detour
The reroute accommodates ongoing construction work at State/Lake, a major downtown intersection that serves as a transfer point for multiple transit lines. Officials didn't specify what type of construction is underway or provide an estimated completion date. Express bus routes like the #146 and #148 typically carry commuters between North Side neighborhoods and downtown during peak hours, making routing changes particularly impactful for work commutes. The CTA hasn't said how long the detour will remain in effect.
Buses Use Wacker Drive Alternate Route
Northbound #146 and #148 buses now travel via State Street, then turn onto Wacker Drive and East Wacker Place before rejoining their regular route on Michigan Avenue. The detour adds several blocks to the normal path through the Loop. Officials advised passengers to allow extra travel time when using these routes, though they didn't specify how much additional time riders should expect. The agency said southbound buses on both routes aren't affected and will continue serving all regular stops.
No End Date Set for Service Change
The reroute began August 20 with no announced end date, leaving riders uncertain about when normal service will resume. Transit officials said the detour will continue until construction at State/Lake is complete, but they haven't released a timeline for the work. The CTA typically posts updates when service changes are extended or when normal operations resume, though officials didn't say how much advance notice riders will receive.
Riders Can Track Detoured Routes
The construction-related reroute is among multiple service alerts currently affecting CTA operations, with delays also reported on the Green Line and service notes issued for Brown, Purple, and Yellow Lines. Officials said riders should check for updates before traveling, particularly during weekday commute hours when express routes carry the highest passenger volumes. Moovit provides real-time bus locations and updated route information for CTA services throughout Chicago.
