The Chicago area is witnessing a significant transformation in its regional transit system. New legislation aimed at preventing service cuts on the CTA, Metra, and Pace begins today. This law is projected to generate around $1.5 billion annually for public transit. Lawmakers emphasized the need for reform during discussions last year. The law prompts changes in the governance of these agencies, with the Regional Transportation Authority being replaced by the Northern Illinois Transit Authority.
Legislators enacted this change, hoping for better coordination among transit agencies and improved service for riders. Today, board members of the Regional Transportation Authority are expected to approve a sales tax increase of 0.25 percentage points in Cook County and surrounding areas, aligning with the new legislation.
What Riders Should Know About the Legislation
This law aims to prevent major service reductions on the CTA, Metra, and Pace by securing approximately $1.5 billion annually. For instance, the CTA had warned of necessary service cuts due to a looming budget gap from depleted federal pandemic aid and lower ridership. Metra and Pace also faced fiscal challenges. The new funding promises not only to maintain but increase train and bus services.
Spanning over 1,000 pages, the legislation introduces numerous requirements for transit agencies. It includes mandates such as bus shield specifications for protecting drivers. Metra must explore extending the Metra Electric Line to Kankakee, while the CTA is tasked with opening a Green Line station in Englewood.
Governance Restructuring
The law significantly changes governance structures. The Northern Illinois Transit Authority will replace the RTA, aimed at empowering better regional coordination. This overhaul affects the boards managing mass transit agencies, with all current board members’ terms ending on September 1, though they may be reappointed.
The legislation reduces the mayor of Chicago’s influence over the CTA’s leadership. Recently, Mayor Brandon Johnson attempted to appoint a permanent head for the CTA, which has been temporarily led for over a year. However, as of Monday, the board has not publicly acted on his request.
Funding Strategy
Illinois plans to redirect funds usually allocated to road projects towards public transit. This includes $860 million from motor fuel sales tax revenue and $200 million from interest earned on the state’s road fund. Additional funding will derive from the sales tax increase, which the RTA board will address today. A 45-cent toll increase on the Illinois Tollway will compensate for funds diverted from road projects.
What Riders Can Anticipate Now
- No fare increases
- Enhanced law enforcement presence
- Improved transit services this year
CTA riders can look forward to more frequent bus services on select routes and investments in reducing slow zones. These changes aim to improve commute times on aging infrastructure. Metra is expanding services on its Rock Island line, which travels from downtown Chicago to Joliet. A significant portion of this year’s funding will enhance law enforcement staffing, particularly on the CTA.