(Note: Originally, the book had narrative descriptions of every CTA bus route. The final format simply didn’t allow for all this material, so periodically I’ll post selected entries here with updates when appropriate.)
X9 Ashland Express (Between Sheridan Red Line stop and Ashland & 95th, morning rush through evening rush, Monday-Friday). Covering much of the same ground as the regular 9 Ashland bus, the X9 offers two big plusses over 9 ordinaire. First, it connects directly with the Red Line at the bus route’s northern terminus (stop in at Emerald City Café next to the station for coffee and a snack while waiting for the driver to finish up his break). And second, it speeds down Ashland Ave. (1600W) bypassing non-major streets. This speed advantage makes the X9 one of the better methods for getting from the north side to the Illinois Medical Campus, particularly Rush University Hospital (exit at Ashland and Harrison), and the University of Illinois at Chicago Hospital (exit at Ashland and Taylor). Assuming you weren’t visiting your cardiologist, after your appointment, treat yourself to an Italian sub at Conte di Savoia (1438 W. Taylor) before heading back north.
