The Purple Line Express will reverse directions on its circuit around the Loop starting Dec. 29, public transit official say.

During construction at the Belmont and Fullerton stations on the north side, the Purple Line has been running counter-clockwise, on the outer tracks of the Loop, according to a release from Chicago Transit Authority officials.

With four tracks now open at Fullerton and the track work nearly complete at Belmont, the Purple Line will switch to its old routing – clockwise on the inside tracks of the Loop, officials say.

Chicago Transit Authority officials made the change because during construction at Belmont and Fullerton, Brown Line trains ran less frequently. Having Purple Line trains follow the same routing as Brown Line trains meant, in theory, that riders would have to wait less time for their trains.

“Restoring normal Purple Express routing in the Loop allows riders improved rush-hour options,” say CTA President Ron Huberman in the release.