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Pink Line (CTA) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The Pink Line is a special train line in Chicago that's part of the famous Chicago "L" system. It's about 11.2 miles (18 km) long and helps people travel around the city. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) runs this train, making it easy for thousands of people to get to work, school, or fun places every day.

Quick facts for kids
Pink Line
North Lawndale Sunset.jpg
A Pink Line train of 5000-series cars.
Overview
Status Operational
Locale Chicago and Cicero, Illinois, United States
Termini 54th/Cermak
The Loop
Stations 22
Service
Type Rapid transit
System Chicago "L"
Operator(s) Chicago Transit Authority
Rolling stock 5000-series
Daily ridership 33,737
(avg. weekday September 2012)
History
Opened June 25, 2006
Technical
Line length 11.2 mi (18.0 km)
Character Elevated and Street Level
Track gauge 4 ft 8 12 in (1,435 mm)
Minimum radius 90 feet (27 m)
Electrification Third rail, 600 V DC

What is the Pink Line?

The Pink Line is the newest train line in the Chicago "L" system. It started running on June 25, 2006. At first, it was a test for 180 days to see how well it worked. It quickly became a regular part of Chicago's public transport.

This train line connects the 54th/Cermak Station in Cicero, Illinois to the Loop in downtown Chicago. The Loop is the busy central area of the city.

Where Does the Pink Line Go?

The Pink Line travels through many neighborhoods. It shares some tracks with the Green Line trains on Lake Street. This connection was made possible by a special track called the Paulina Connector.

In September 2012, about 33,737 people rode the Pink Line on an average weekday. This shows how important it is for daily travel in Chicago. The Pink Line has 22 stations along its route.

When Does the Pink Line Run?

The Pink Line operates almost every day of the week.

  • On weekdays, trains run from 4:05 AM until 1:25 AM the next morning.
  • On Saturdays and Sundays, trains start a bit later, at 5:05 AM, and also run until 1:25 AM.

This schedule helps people get around Chicago early in the morning and late at night.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Línea Rosa (Metro de Chicago) para niños

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