Page 37 - Columbia College Chicago Student Handbook 2024-2025

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION (888) YOUR-CTA transitchicago.com The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) allows Chicago residents to travel almost anywhere in the city and most times of the day or night. Visit transitchicago.com or call 1.888.YOUR.CTA to find current bus and train schedules and fare information. The CTA offers riders both text and web-based alerts, providing information about each bus or train’s current location and expected arrival. Full-time students are provided with a Ventra U-Pass, which they pay for as part of their fees when they register for classes. Ventra U-Passes provide each eligible student unlimited ridership on any CTA bus or train during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. For suburban residents, the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) provides transportation options, including Metra trains and PACE buses, to and from the city to many Chicagoland suburbs and even some Chicago neighborhoods. Visit rtachicago.com for current routes and schedule information. PARKING Students who drive to school will need to park in a lot or use meter parking around the South Loop campus. The parking meters in Chicago are owned and operated by a private company. Hourly rates will vary by location and typically, meters are in operation from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., including weekends and holidays. There are several parking lots and garages around the South Loop, especially along Wabash Avenue and State Street. Daily parking rates are seasonal and tend to spike during peak holiday and festival times. Shop around for the best bargain and ask about monthly plans and student discounts - they are available, but students have to ask. The security desk in each building has a stamp to validate parking for many of the area’s participating lots. CAMPUS SAFETY AND SECURITY 911 - Emergencies requiring Police, Fire, or Medical Services Columbia College Chicago’s 24/7/365 Security Command Center (312) 369-1111 Columbia Emergency Line (312) 369-3220 Columbia Non-Emergency Line (312) 369-SAFE (7233) for Security Escort Columbia College Chicago provides a safety and security program on campus. Our 24-hour Security Command Center includes dispatching capabilities and a video surveillance and emergency communications network that is staffed around the clock. Our technical systems include alarm system monitoring, emergency telephones in multiple locations across campus and emergency notification technology, Everbridge, a mass notification voice email and text notification system. To complement our 24/7 campus security patrols, security officers may use marked security vehicles, Segways, and bicycles. Most campus buildings have a security 35