CTA to get $1 billion for improvements

Officials say the Chicago Transit Authority will get a $1 billion boost.

Gov. Pat Quinn, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and others announced Thursday that two train lines will be renovated and rebuilt with federal, state and local money.

Quinn says $646 million is coming from the state.

That combined with other funds will be used to repair and rebuild portions of the Red Line, which runs north and south through almost the entire city. Chicago officials say the repairs are necessary because some of the stations and parts of the line are dilapidated.

The money will also be used to improve the Purple Line, which extends north of downtown.

Officials say the construction will create about 2,700 jobs and speed up commutes.

CTA gave more than 500 million rides last year.