CTA Reroutes Route 49 Around Street Blockage
CTA Route 49 buses detour via 59th Street and Damen Avenue due to Western Avenue blockage
CTA Reroutes Route 49 Buses Due to Street Block
Chicago's Route 49 Western buses are detouring around a street blockage near Western Avenue and 57th Street, causing minor delays for riders in both directions. The Chicago Transit Authority said the reroute began Friday, April 17, at 12:26 a.m., with buses now traveling via Western Avenue, 59th Street, Damen Avenue, and 55th Street before returning to their regular route. Officials haven't said when normal service will resume, listing the end date as to be determined.
Street Blockage Prompts Service Modification
The reroute stems from a street blockage at the intersection of Western Avenue and 57th Street, transit officials said. The CTA regularly issues customer alerts to keep riders informed about service changes and disruptions affecting their commutes. Officials didn't specify what's causing the blockage or provide details about when crews expect to clear the obstruction. Transit agencies typically reroute buses around street blockages caused by construction, utility work, special events, or emergency situations that make normal routes impassable.
Detour Affects Both Travel Directions
The service modification affects Route 49 buses traveling in both northbound and southbound directions near the 57th Street area. Buses detour east on 59th Street, then north on Damen Avenue, before heading west on 55th Street to rejoin Western Avenue and continue their regular route. The CTA classified the service change as causing minor delays, though officials didn't provide specific estimates for how much additional travel time riders should expect. Passengers are advised to allow extra time when using this route during the detour period.
No Timeline Set for Normal Service Return
Officials haven't announced when Route 49 buses will return to their normal path along Western Avenue near 57th Street. The CTA listed the reroute's end date as to be determined, indicating the duration depends on how quickly the street blockage can be cleared. Transit officials said they'll continue monitoring the situation and update riders as conditions change.
Riders Can Track Detour in Real Time
Passengers using Route 49 should plan for minor delays and allow extra travel time during the detour period. The CTA said it provides real-time updates through multiple channels, and riders can sign up for service notifications about changes affecting their regular routes. Moovit offers real-time bus tracking and trip planning for CTA routes, helping riders navigate service changes and find the fastest routes during disruptions.
