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Christopher Ferrari

CTA Dashboard

Published on January 1, 2026

Data
API
JavaScript
Real-time
Live

Bloomberg Terminal-inspired real-time dashboard for the Chicago Transit Authority train system. Features SQL-like query syntax, live train tracking, and system health monitoring.

Features:

  • Real-time CTA train tracking across all 8 lines
  • SQL-like WHERE clause filtering (e.g., SHOW RED WHERE VEL > 5)
  • System health monitoring with stale data detection
  • Terminal-style command interface with 15+ commands
  • Live velocity, heading, and position data for every train
  • Headway gap analysis for service quality monitoring

Commands:

  • FLEET - View all active trains in the system
  • TOP - System health snapshot with alerts
  • SHOW [LINE] WHERE [CONDITION] - Filter trains with SQL-like syntax
  • GAP [LINE] - Analyze service gaps on a line
  • TRACK [RUN] - Follow a specific train
  • DEST [NAME] - Find trains by destination

Tech Stack:

  • Frontend: Vanilla JS, HTML, CSS (no frameworks)
  • Backend: Express.js API gateway with CORS
  • Data Source: CTA Train Tracker API
  • Hosting: Self-hosted with Nginx reverse proxy