by Aaron M. Renn
Chronicling life riding the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
Visit The Weekly Breakdown on the web at http://www.urbanophile.com/breakdown/
Mike Pietrusinski (nospam-petro@interaccess.com) writes to tell us that there is a notice in the State of Illinois Building that between 9/15 and 9/29 trains may be running ahead of schedule while the CTA tests potential schedule improvements. I have personally observed this so watch out.
Mike Harris (nospam-mharris@enteract.com) wrote a complain letter to the CTA back in January. Their response contains some interesting material the Mike wrote in to share with us.
Mike complained about non-existent or inaudible station stop announcements. The CTA said that their long term plan is to install an automated in train announcement system. No details on timing.
Mike complained about station signs not having a consistent color scheme. The CTA said that their new signs will be dark grey with white text and the line color at the end of the station name. This is the standard in use at the new Library station on the Loop L.
nospam-fvandevanter@marksbros.com) wrote in with a question. He wants to know why the Green Line slows down between Cicero and Laramie. I don't know this line at all so was hoping someone could help out with an answer.
Mike Harris (nospam-mharris@enteract.com) wrote in to say:
Red Line run #905, which I had the misfortune to be on, stopped once outside Addison and then once again just north of North/Clybourn. Both times the conductor physically got out of the car. This was roughly around 8:25 am to 8:45 am (I don't wear a watch). When the doors opened outside North/Clybourn, there was a definite burning smell.
The Weekly Breakdown is a small Internet journal devoted to the trials and tribulations of being a regular rider of the Chicago Transit Authority. I would be happy to hear about and include your experiences. Just send mail to breakdown@urbanophile.com.
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