Chicago station (CTA Brown and Purple Lines)
| Company type | Rapid transit station |
|---|---|
| Industry | Public transportation |
| Founded | 1900 |
| Headquarters | Chicago, Illinois , United States |
| Products | Rapid transit services (Brown Line, Purple Line Express) |
Chicago, originally known as Chicago/Franklin, is a station on the CTA's Brown and Purple Lines of the ‘L’ system. Located in the Near North Side neighborhood at 300 W Chicago Avenue, close to the intersection of West Chicago Avenue and North Franklin Street, this station began operations in 1900 as part of the initial Northwestern Elevated Railroad. It serves a vibrant district rich with art galleries and educational facilities, such as the Moody Bible Institute.
Brown Line trains stop here throughout the year, whereas Purple Line Express trains serve the station only during weekday peak periods.
Station layout
The original station building was positioned on the north side of Chicago Avenue. Past the turnstiles, stairways ascended to two extended side platforms. Notably, these platforms were lengthy, extending from just north of Chicago Avenue, curving along the tracks before straightening out south of the avenue. Initially, this station accommodated both 'L' trains and North Shore Line interurban services, necessitating platforms capable of handling eight-car train sets. Just north of Chicago Avenue, the number of tracks narrowed from four to two, so this two-track station with side platforms had to provide capacity comparable to four-track stations with island platforms like Belmont (Red/Brown/Purple) or Fullerton. Prior to the Brown Line Capacity Expansion Project, the northern curved sections of the platforms were closed off; trains stopped on straighter track segments south of Chicago Avenue that could accommodate eight-car trains. Exit-only turnstiles provided access to Superior Street at the southern ends of both platforms, and an additional exit on the southbound platform led to the south side of Chicago Avenue.
During the Brown Line Capacity Expansion Project, Chicago/Franklin underwent significant upgrades. New elevated station houses were constructed on the south side of Chicago Avenue adjacent to each platform. The original historic station house was preserved and repurposed for operational support functions. The Superior Street exits were reconstructed with multiple entrance and exit turnstiles and expanded stairways. Platform canopies were renovated and repositioned over active boarding areas. Elevators were installed at both station houses, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards for passengers with disabilities.
Bus connections
- 37 Sedgwick (Weekday Service Only)
- 66 Chicago (Overnight Service)