Illinois Lawmakers Secure Future of Chicagoland Transit with New Funding Bill
Chicago, IL - A notable funding bill, officially known as the Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act (SB2111), has passed the Illinois General Assembly and is expected to be signed into law by Governor JB pritzker, averting a potential fiscal crisis for the region’s public transportation systems. The legislation provides $1.5 billion in funding for Metra, the Chicago Transit authority (CTA), and Pace bus services, without raising new taxes.
The funding is crucial to address a projected $770 million deficit facing the Regional Transportation authority (RTA), primarily stemming from the expiration of federal COVID-19 pandemic relief funds. Without intervention, the RTA and its operating agencies faced drastic service cuts. metra,such as,had projected a 40% reduction in service,including significant schedule reductions on the BNSF Line and complete suspension of service on the Metra Electric’s Blue Island Branch.
The bill redirects existing sales tax revenue currently allocated to motor fuel purchases to support transit operations. Beyond immediate funding, SB2111 establishes an Interagency Coordinating Committee on Transit Innovation, Integration, and Reform, tasked with improving connectivity and streamlining operations across the entire Chicagoland public transit network.
The RTA has lauded the bill’s passage, calling it ”a landmark moment” for public transit in Illinois. In a statement, RTA officials emphasized the bill’s provision of “stable funding and governance reforms needed to protect transit service” for the millions of riders and the thousands of transit workers who keep the region moving.They highlighted the potential for improved service, reduced travel times, and an enhanced rider experience thanks to the over $1 billion in new operating funding. The legislation also restructures regional transit governance, transitioning the RTA to the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) and implementing new requirements for coordinated planning and rider support.
–Justin Franz
