Modified Lollapalooza Metra Train Schedule, Rules For Riders Take Effect

CHICAGO — Metra began operating with a special schedule Thursday to accommodate the tens of thousands of fans expected to flow into downtown Chicago for Lollapalooza.

Transit officials encouraged festivalgoers and anyone else facing the "nightmare of stand-still traffic and the astronomical prices for downtown parking" to use public transit.

Metra will provide additional trains and railcars through Sunday to expand its capacity and accommodate the anticipated high demand.

Meanwhile, the CTA is extending service on the Yellow Line, with Skokie Swift trains set to run until 1 a.m.

“Public transportation is clearly the most affordable, most convenient way to travel to Lollapalooza," Metra CEO and Executive Director Jim Derwinski said in a statement, "and Metra and CTA are again working together to make the trip as easy as possible.”

Special Lollapalooza service schedules have been released for the Union Pacific North Line, the Milwaukee District North Line, the Union Pacific Northwest Line, the Rock Island Line, Milwaukee District West, Union Pacific West and BNSF.

From Thursday to Sunday, alcohol is banned on all Metra trains due to Lollapalooza. Rail officials asked riders not to travel with backpacks or water bottles either.

And do not assume there will be room for a bicycle. Due to the expected high ridership, bicycles may not be accommodated, and conductors can refuse boarding to cyclists. Earlier this year, Metra officials adjusted its policy to allow bicycles on all trains, even during rush hour.

Various bus routes will connect Metra trains at Chicago Union Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center with Grant Park. CTA and Metra planned to post sign boards directing riders to the appropriate bus routes, the No. 126 Jackson from Union Station or the No. J14 Jeffrey Jump from Ogilvie. Buses on these routes will also have signs in their windows indicating they serve Lollapalooza.

CTA President Dorval Carter said traveling on CTA and Metra to Lollapalooza will allow attendees to use their savings to afford more memorabilia and food at the festival.

“Lollapalooza is easily our highest ridership weekend of the year, and it is our honor to be entrusted with providing music fans a safe and convenient option to and from Grant Park,” Carter said.

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