CTA Ridership Up 1 Percent, Mostly On Buses

CHICAGO (STNG)  -- Nearly 500 million rides were taken on the CTA in 2007 --  an increase of 4.7 million or 1 percent -- over 2006 ridership, the agency announced Wednesday. 

The 499.5 million combined bus and rail rides in 2007 is the highest ridership level since 1992, according to a release from the CTA. Since 1997, the CTA says, it has gained 60 million annual rides. Because of construction affecting the Red, Brown and Blue lines, though, fewer people were taking trains than in 2006.

“The growth in 2007 ridership shows that more customers are choosing the CTA for discretionary trips as well as workday commutes, and that reflects the critical role public transit plays within the region,” CTA President Ron Huberman said in the release. “As we continue to make service improvements, we expect to see continued ridership growth.”

Weekend ridership showed the strongest growth. Saturday ridership in 2007 increased by 1.1 percent over 2006 and Sunday/holiday ridership increased by 1.9 percent, the release said.

The CTA’s bus system posted particularly strong gains, according to the release. Buses provided 309.3 million rides, an increase of 10.8 million over 2006, or a gain of 3.6 percent. Throughout the year, bus boardings hit or surpassed levels not seen since 1994.

Rail provided 190.2 million rides, which was 2.5 percent, or 4.9 million, fewer than in 2006. The CTA says it anticipated reduced rail ridership due to several major projects to repair and rebuild the system. As a result, many rail customers switched to buses.

Overall, the agency says rail ridership remains strong. Despite the drop in 2007, rail ridership was at its highest since 1970. In 2006, rail ridership was at its highest since 1968.

“Major strides were made this year in improving service through our significant investment in repair and maintenance across the system," Chicago Transit Board Chairman Carole Brown said in the release. "Despite the inconveniences associated with these efforts, our riders adjusted as evidenced by the year’s ridership figures. We are grateful for their support throughout a very challenging year.”