Looks like seatless cars aren't the only changes brewing over at the CTA. It seems the CTA is now exploring the possibilities of grocery stores at El stops in the future, as well as mini-banks and restaurants. It's all part of the CTA's attempt to take commercial advantage of its property, especially with the increase in riders. Early candidates for such a development include the Berwyn, Wilson and North/Clybourn stops on the Red Line. Several grocery chains have expressed interest in the idea. Yesterday, the CTA hired Jones Lang LaSalle at a rate of $4.2 million over five years to help assess their property and secure businesses.

Agency officials talked of reaping as much as $100 million over the next five years from new commercial development. Currently it generates more than $6 million a year from retail concessions, Park & Ride lots and parking beneath "L" lines and other sources. more ›