The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) announced it is installing new and improved fare gates at rail stations across the system that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Work to replace existing Special Access Gates (SAGs) across the rail system will continue through early 2024.

“The installation of these new ADA fare gates balance the agency’s goal of enhancing accessibility throughout the rail system, while also addressing concerns around individuals entering rail stations with the intent to disrupt our service or other riders,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr.

Details of the New Fare Gates

The new doors include an improved locking mechanism with more reliable hardware and will operate in the same manner as the existing gates.

To help reduce fare evasion, the doors are taller, and the exit button will be more difficult to reach from the unpaid side.

The new ADA fare gates are designed to improve accessible entrances at CTA rail stations and address fare evasion concerns, including those entrances that may not be staffed with a Customer Service Representative (CSR).

“As a wheelchair user myself, I am glad that these new doors will be more reliable and durable for those who cannot use turnstiles and are dependent on these gates functioning properly,” said CTA ADA Compliance Programs Manager, Irma Gomez-Fierro.  “In addition, these new fare gates will serve as an added safety measure, helping deter individuals from misusing the doors and preventing the wrong riders from utilizing an accessible entrance.”

CTA’s investment follows similar rail gate infrastructure improvement projects by transit agencies across the country to address fare evasion concerns, including Washington Metropolitan Transit Authority (WMATA), Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), and Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA).

Currently, 24 of the new ADA doors have already been installed at rail stations across the system. They will replace the remaining 119 SAGs located throughout the CTA rail system by early 2024.