THE LOOP — The CTA will begin running its new Loop Link, an express bus project using dedicated lanes and raised platforms, on Sunday.
Construction started earlier this year for the $31.8 million project, that is intended to cut Loop congestion and make it easier for people to get between the east and west ends of the business district.
Eight of the stops — eastbound on Washington and westbound on Madison — feature new raised bus boarding stations. Only one, Madison east of Wabash, won't be ready until after the launch.
The Loop Link lanes will be used by six CTA bus routes regularly: the J14, 20, 56, 60, 124 and 157. The No. 19 bus will also be using the route when there are events at the United Center.
The project also includes a protected bike lane along Washington. A similar westbound bike lane is expected to be completed along Randolph next year.
The city expects work on the Canal Street section of the project will be complete by next spring.
Last month, the CTA announced that express bus routes will start running during rush hour on Western and Ashland avenues on Dec. 21.
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