The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is the second largest public transportation system in the United States. The rail system is referred to as the ‘L’ because most of its rail lines are elevated above the city streets. On any weekday, 1,042,505 rides are taken on CTA (buses and the ‘L’).
History and Operations
The CTA has a long history, dating back to June 6, 1892, when the Chicago and South Side Rapid Transit Railroad Company opened, running trains on an elevated track. Over the years, the CTA has expanded and modernized its services, introducing new rail lines, buses, and payment methods. Today, the CTA has 2,012 buses, 127 routes, and 10,667 posted bus stops, as well as 1,660 rail cars, eight different routes, and 146 train stations.
The CTA provides transportation to both of Chicago’s major airports, O’Hare and Midway. The authority also has K-9 patrol units and police security, as well as over 33,000 surveillance cameras. The CTA has introduced various innovations, including the Ventra fare system, which allows riders to use reloadable cards to enter turnstiles.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
