CTA Route 49 Detours Around Western Ave Blockage
CTA Route 49 detours via 59th, Damen, and 55th due to Western Ave blockage at 57th
Headline
CTA Route 49 Rerouted Due to Western Ave Blockage
Paragraph 1
Chicago's #49 Western bus route is running on a detour in both directions due to a street blockage near Western Avenue and 57th Street, transit officials said. The reroute began Friday, April 17, at 12:26 a.m., and the CTA hasn't announced when normal service will resume. Buses are traveling via Western Avenue, 59th Street, Damen Avenue, and 55th Street before returning to Western Avenue.
Paragraph 2
The street blockage near the Western and 57th intersection has forced the temporary service modification, according to the transit agency. Officials classified the disruption as causing minor delays but advised passengers to allow extra travel time. The CTA regularly issues customer alerts to keep riders informed about service changes and disruptions affecting their commutes. The agency didn't specify what's causing the blockage or how long repairs might take.
Paragraph 3
The detour affects buses traveling in both directions on one of Chicago's longest north-south routes. Buses continue on Western Avenue to 59th Street, turn east to Damen Avenue, head south to 55th Street, then return west to Western Avenue to resume normal routing. The CTA listed the end date for the reroute as TBD, meaning to be determined. Officials haven't said whether the blockage involves construction, infrastructure damage, or another issue requiring street closure.
Paragraph 4
The reroute will remain in effect until the street blockage is cleared, though officials haven't provided a timeline for resolution. The CTA said it'll continue monitoring the situation and will restore normal service once conditions allow. Riders can sign up for service updates to receive notifications about changes affecting their regular routes.
Paragraph 5
Passengers using the #49 Western route should expect minor delays and plan accordingly during the detour period. The CTA provides real-time updates through multiple channels to help riders adjust their travel plans. Moovit offers real-time bus tracking and alternative route suggestions for Chicago transit riders affected by service changes.
