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On June 25, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will begin operating an additional route on what is now the 54th/Cermak branch of the Blue Line for a six-month test period.

To be called the Pink Line, the route will connect the former 54th/Cermak branch to Chicago’s downtown Loop via the recently restored Paulina Connector. Currently, the 54th/Cermak branch runs along Cermak Avenue, turns near Paulina and joins the Forest Park branch along the Eisenhower Expressway to access the Loop through the Dearborn Subway. Under the test service, CTA will reroute 54th/Cermak trains to new elevated tracks near Paulina Street. Trains will continue to travel along Paulina via the new connector tracks and join the Green Line at Lake Street to travel into the Loop.

The new route will improve connections to other lines, and enable CTA to create faster and more frequent service.

The Pink Line is one of several test services planned for Chicago’s West side and suburbs based on results of a West Side Corridor Study. CTA also is increasing service on the Forest Park branch of the Blue Line.