CTA posts slow-zone map
In the last few weeks readers here have wondered where the slow zones are on the CTA's train system.
Not too long after those queries, the CTA posted this map (in pdf).
Also, CTA Chairwoman Carole Brown helpfully explains some of the slow zones on her blog.
As for fixing the slow zones, Carole says:
"Overall, we have identified funding to eliminate about 90% of CTA's slow zones (including all Red Line slow zones) and we're moving forward with repairs. The new federal transportation law signed by President Bush this week includes a significant increase in federal capital formula funding that we hope will accelerate these types of improvements. As I have noted previously, the next step is to secure non-federal matching funds to ensure that Metra, Pace, and CTA can qualify for these much-needed federal dollars."
My dreadful passing through what seemed like 987 slow zones on the red line south to fullerton to hop a purple to orange(midway) thursday is now a recessed memory after riding BART out here in the bay area this weekend.
I wish I could pack it up and bring it back home to Chicago with me. :)
It's a great thrill to roar around in a full-sized commuter train with carpeting, comfortably-padded seats and extra wide bodies for a change at 70-80 mph. My back appreciates the smooth tracking too.
http://www.bart.gov/stations/quickPlanner/quickPlanner.asp
Posted by: deepkid | August 29, 2005 at 01:32 PM
That map made me dizzy.
Posted by: Joanne | August 29, 2005 at 04:20 PM
The BART map or the slow zone map? That slow zone map does look like it was designed by Vincent Price on a Radio Shack TRS-80.
On another note, I just had a CTA motorman (lady) give me the look over then comment on my smooth legs as I walked past. (Train had just let us off at Granville.)
Just when I get so frustrated with the CTA, something funny happens to melt away some of the stress. :)
Posted by: deepkid | August 30, 2005 at 03:26 PM
The slow zone maps is meant to be a technical document, not a marketing tool, so it's going to look more like a schmatic than a poster. How that translates to Vincent Price on a TRS-80, I don't understand.
It likely was produced with some professional level drafting tools that are far too complex to run on an old personal workstation. And Vincent Price was an actor, and as far as I know, is not related to the graphical arts or technical drawing. So I must be missing something.
Posted by: Warren | August 30, 2005 at 03:50 PM
A sense of humor? It's obvious that it wasn't produced on a TRS-80. Enjoy your day.
Posted by: deepkid | August 30, 2005 at 04:32 PM
I meant the slow zone map. And yes, I get it's a technical document. All I'm saying is that if the CTA is going to publish something in response to questions here, it should be something laypeople can understand.
Posted by: Joanne | August 31, 2005 at 12:01 PM
Not to burst your bubble, but I think the slow zone map was posted in response to specific questions on Carole Brown's site, not because she's perusing CTA tattler every day.
Posted by: kdjf | August 31, 2005 at 01:35 PM
can they post the train stops where the train comes to a sreeching halt throwing everybody to the front car.
Posted by: cmama | September 09, 2005 at 09:39 AM
The map shows a slow zone of 15 mph on the blue line, why then does the operater say the zone requires 6mph! 6mph toward ohare, it takes 50 min from monroe to damen!
Posted by: electric citizen | February 14, 2007 at 06:11 PM
Does anyone know if the slow zone south of Roosevelt for the orange and green lines is changing?
Posted by: megc | February 15, 2008 at 02:52 PM