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Ongoing construction in Lincoln Square has revealed historic streetcar tracks dating back to 1895, sparking local curiosity. These tracks were part of the Lincoln Avenue streetcar system, which served the neighborhood until 2017. Graham Garfield, a transit historian, explained that while the specific rails may have been replaced, their discovery underscores Chicago's rich transit history. The city once hosted one of the world's largest networks of independent street railway systems, which saw significant decline by the 1950s. Factors such as fare caps, the Great Depression, and corruption led to the transition from streetcars to buses, culminating in the CTA's creation in 1945 to manage failing transit companies.

Ian Tobin, a community development director, noted the cost-effectiveness of bus maintenance compared to streetcars, contributing to this shift. Tim Samuelson, Chicago's cultural historian, emphasized the craftsmanship of early road builders, as evidenced by the tracks resurfacing during construction. This discovery serves as a reminder of the city's historical transit legacy and the evolution of its transportation infrastructure.