CTA Route 157 Reroutes for Infrastructure Work

CTA route 157 northbound buses reroute via Jefferson Street due to Canal reconstruction

2026-04-26, Moovit News Team

CTA Route 157 Reroutes via Jefferson Street

Chicago's CTA will reroute northbound buses on route 157 Streeterville/Taylor starting Monday, December 15, transit officials said. The change affects northbound service only, with buses traveling via Taylor and Jefferson streets before returning to their regular route on Washington. Southbound buses will continue operating normally without changes.
CTA bus route 157 traveling through downtown Chicago street with urban buildings in background

Infrastructure Work Drives Service Change

The reroute is necessary due to the Chicago Department of Transportation's Canal Street Reconstruction Project, according to the transit agency. CDOT's infrastructure work will require buses to avoid their typical route through the affected construction zone. Officials said the project timeline will determine when normal service resumes, though they haven't announced a specific end date for the reroute. Transit agencies typically coordinate service changes with municipal construction projects to maintain access while allowing infrastructure improvements.

Seven Temporary Stops Designated Along Jefferson

The CTA has designated seven temporary boarding locations along Jefferson Street for northbound riders. Stops include Jefferson/Taylor, Jefferson/Polk, Jefferson/Harrison, Jefferson/Van Buren, Jefferson/Jackson, Jefferson/Washington, and Washington/Canal. All boarding points are located at northeast or southwest corners of the respective intersections. Officials said only route 157 is affected, with no impact to rail lines or other bus services.

Reroute Takes Effect Monday Morning

The service change takes effect Monday, December 15, 2025, officials confirmed. The CTA hasn't announced when the reroute will end, saying the timeline depends on completion of CDOT's Canal Street reconstruction work. Transit officials recommend riders allow extra travel time during the reroute period.
CTA bus stop sign at Chicago street corner intersection with route number display

Riders Should Plan for Longer Trips

Passengers using northbound route 157 should expect modified travel times and different boarding locations throughout the construction period. Officials advised riders to allow additional time for their commutes. The CTA recommends checking updated schedules for real-time service information. Moovit provides current route details and trip planning for CTA services, including temporary reroutes and stop changes.