The Story Behind Chicago’s Famous Elevated Train Ride

Most major cities with public transportation have some sort of train system, which is usually a subway, but have you ever wondered why Chicago has an elevated line instead?

Why Does Chicago Have An Elevated Train Line Instead Of A Subway?

I've been really lucky because throughout my life, I've gone into Chicago thousands of times. It doesn't matter if I was a kid, teenager, or adult like I am now, public transportation has always been the best way around the Windy City.

READ MORE: Illinois Man's E-Bike Confiscated By Police For Breaking The Law

My favorite form of public transportation to use is the "L" or elevated train. First of all, it's always an interesting experience. You never know who or what you'll see on a trip. Plus, it's super easy to use and inexpensive. There's also the thrill of the ride itself.

One thing that I've wondered for a long time is why does Chicago have the "L" train as opposed to a subway line like you see in most big cities. With a little research, I was able to find out the answer, and it makes a lot of sense.

Get our free mobile app

According to Chicago Magazine...

Two reasons: money and geology.

 

Elevated lines were cheaper to construct than subways, so they appealed to the profit-minded transportation firms, which were supplanted by the Chicago Transit Authority in 1945.

 

Underground rail was also more difficult to build here, says local historian Tim Samuelson: “Subway construction was problematic in Chicago, given the soft clay-like nature of the substrate, and the nature of fragile ‘floating’ building foundations in the downtown area.”