'Keep the memories alive': CTA revives decades-old railcars for special milestone

CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) riders got to experience a piece of history on Sunday, as the transit agency celebrated 40 years of service to and from O’Hare Airport.

The idea to extend Chicago’s “L” to O’Hare Airport dates back to the 1950s, CTA officials said. It wasn’t until Labor Day in 1984, though, that O’Hare Station officially opened. At the time, Chicago was one of the only cities in the U.S. with direct, rapid transit to an airport.

On Sunday, the same 6000-series railcars that first carried CTA riders to O’Hare were once again filled with Chicagoans. This time, they were transported right back to the ’80s.

“The cars look as they did in 1984,” said Graham Garfield. “They have ads and maps from the 1980s.”

Garfield, with CTA's Heritage Fleet Program, said the agency was offering a 15-minute, round-trip ride from O’Hare to Rosemont Yard to mark the special milestone.

Among those volunteering for the event was John Zupko, who retired from the CTA after 44 years of service.

“This actual car — 6711 and 6712 — I worked this car as both a conductor and a motorman on what is now called the Purple Line,” Zupko said.

The 6000-series railcars were retired from regular service in 1992, according to the CTA. Zupko said the best part about seeing the trains back in action was watching the younger generation embrace Chicago’s history.

“This was what brought the people to and from work, and to and from school,” he said. “When young people take interest in it, it’s going to keep the memories alive.”

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