Brown, Orange and southbound Green Line trains will be temporarily rerouted in the Loop from 4 a.m. Saturday, November 6, until approximately 8 p.m. Sunday, November 7, as Chicago Transit Authority crews install a new signal control facility at Van Buren and Wabash. The work is part of CTA's continuing efforts to upgrade the signal and train control systems in the Loop.

During these hours, the signal controls will not operate automatically; therefore, trains must be flagged through the intersection by crews on the tracks. CTA recommends customers allow extra travel time.

Beginning Saturday at 4 a.m., southbound Brown Line trains entering the Loop will operate clockwise around the Loop. Northbound Orange Line trains entering the Loop will operate counter clockwise around the Loop.

Southbound Green Line trains will be rerouted to the track along Wells and Van Buren. All Pink Line and northbound Green Line trains will operate on their regular routes in the Loop.

The new signal system will help to improve the reliability of service by regulating train movement, speed and intervals at the Wabash and Van Buren junction where trains enter and exit the Loop. With the current signal and control system, trains may experience delays while waiting for signal clearance when crossing into or out of the Loop.

The new system will reduce signal clearance delays by replacing the current system, which is more than 30 years old, with new signals designed to improve service reliability by regulating train movement, speed and intervals more effectively. The newer equipment also will reduce the cost of maintenance as aging equipment requires maintenance more frequently.

The Loop Signal replacement project is expected to conclude in late 2010. The project is being conducted in phases to help minimize the impact to customers. The majority of the work has taken place on weekends and in the early morning hours.