Track work forces Brown Line trains underground through weekend

Some Brown Line trains will operate underground this weekend as CTA crews work on the two-mile stretch between the Armitage and Merchandise Mart stops.

The reroute began 8 p.m. Friday and will last through 1:30 a.m. Monday, according to the CTA.

Brown Line trains will run in both directions on Red Line tracks between North/Clybourn and Roosevelt, the CTA said. Trains will operate normally between the Kimball and Fullerton stops.

Riders can take free shuttle buses in both directions between Fullerton and Clark/Lake. Also, a shuttle train will run around the Loop for connections to Brown Line trains running underground and the shuttle buses at Clark/Lake.

Crews are replacing old rails and ties on the Ravenswood Connector, or the tracks between the Armitage and Merchandise Mart stops, the CTA said.

The goal of the $90 million rehab project is to eliminate slow zones on the Purple Express and Brown lines.