Orange Line (CTA) Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Orange Line
A Orange Line train of 3200-series cars.
Overview
Status	Operational
Locale	Chicago, Illinois, United States
Termini	Midway The Loop
Stations	16
Service
Type	Rapid transit
System	Chicago "L"
Operator(s)	Chicago Transit Authority
Rolling stock	2600-series, 3200-series
Daily ridership	63,037 (avg. weekday September 2012)
History
Opened	October 31, 1993
Technical
Line length	12.5 mi (20.1 km)
Character	Elevated and Surface Level
Track gauge	4 ft 8 ¹⁄₂ in (1,435 mm)
Minimum radius	90 feet (27 m)
Electrification	Third rail, 600 V DC

The Orange Line is a special train line in Chicago, Illinois. It's part of the famous "L" train system, which is run by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). This train line is about 12.5 miles (20.1 km) long. It travels both on elevated tracks and at ground level. The Orange Line connects Midway International Airport to downtown Chicago, also known as The Loop. It's a very busy line, helping many people get around Chicago every day. In September 2012, about 63,037 people rode the Orange Line on an average weekday.

What is the Orange Line?
- Who runs the Orange Line?
- What kind of trains are used?
Where does the Orange Line go?
- Midway Airport to The Loop
When did the Orange Line start?
- How often do trains run?
Images for kids
See also

What is the Orange Line?

The Orange Line is a fast and important way to travel in Chicago. It's a type of train called "rapid transit." This means it moves quickly and often, helping many people get to their jobs, schools, or other places. The trains run on special tracks that are either high above the ground or at ground level.

Who runs the Orange Line?

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates the Orange Line. The CTA is in charge of many public transportation services in Chicago, including buses and other "L" train lines. They make sure the trains run safely and on time.

What kind of trains are used?

The Orange Line uses different types of train cars. Some of these are called 2600-series and 3200-series cars. These trains are powered by electricity, which they get from a "third rail" next to the tracks. This system helps the trains move smoothly and quickly.

Where does the Orange Line go?

The Orange Line connects two very important places in Chicago. It starts at Midway International Airport and ends in The Loop.

Midway Airport to The Loop

Midway International Airport: This is a major airport in Chicago. The Orange Line makes it easy for travelers to get from the airport right into the city center.
The Loop: This is the downtown area of Chicago. It's a busy place with many businesses, shops, and attractions. The Orange Line helps people reach this central area.

The line has 16 stations along its route. These stations allow people to get on and off the train at different neighborhoods in the Southwest Side of Chicago before reaching downtown.

When did the Orange Line start?

The Orange Line officially opened on October 31, 1993. Before this line was built, there wasn't an easy train connection to Midway Airport. The new line made it much simpler for people to travel to and from the airport.

How often do trains run?

The Orange Line runs almost all day and night.

On weekdays, trains operate from 4:00 AM until 1:25 AM the next morning.
On Saturdays and Sundays, trains start a little later, at 4:30 AM, and also run until 1:25 AM.

This long schedule helps many people use the train for different activities throughout the day.

Images for kids

The Orange Line's terminal at Midway International Airport
A former CTA car at the Fox River Trolley Museum displays a "Ford City" destination sign

Orange Line (CTA) facts for kids

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