‘L’ Stations Near Offices Have Seen Fewer Riders Return Than Those Located Near Parks, Urban Institute Analysis Shows
UTC Director Dr. P.S. Sriraj Offers Comments in Chicago Tribune Article
A national research study revealed that CTA rapid transit stations near office properties had fewer riders since 2019, while ridership near stations with parks and recreational facilities showed an increase in riders.
In a November 10 article published in the Chicago Tribune from transportation reporter Sarah Freishtat, UTC Director Dr. P.S. Sriraj noted that transit remains in flux since the pandemic and it will take more time to fully analyze future ridership trends. Development near train stations has long driven ridership, Dr. Sriraj added, but noted that "Transit has to reinvent itself."
The article points out that CTA "L" stations that are located near office properties have attracted use by 55% of pre-pandemic riders, while stations surrounded by open space, including parks, had brought back 82%.
The study was prepared by the Urban Institute. Visit this link to access the study.