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The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) recently implemented a pilot program to test six reduced-seating rail cars on the Brown Line.

The authority removed 12 seats in one car and 14 seats in the other five, and added stanchions and handles for standing passengers. For every seat removed, at least two riders can be added, CTA said.

The agency is seeking ways to increase capacity to meet demand. In August, ridership rose 9.5 percent compared with August 2007's total, and train rides increased by 808,000. Through eight months, ridership is up 5.3 percent.