Transit Leaders Plead For Lawmakers To Fill 200 Million Shortfall As CTA, Metra Cuts Loom

Transit advocates called for immediate legislative action to address a $202 million funding shortfall threatening the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra, and Pace. During a Regional Transportation Authority meeting, board member Nora Cay Ryan stressed the need for the agency to engage lawmakers more actively on the fiscal crisis. The budget gap, reduced from a projected $771 million, still risks mass layoffs and cuts to services starting next summer. Union leaders warned that without new funding legislation by the end of the fall veto session, the CTA could cut service by 22% and eliminate 1,700 jobs. Audrey Wennink from the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition stated inaction would result in severe consequences for public transportation.

Transit worker Leo Wong expressed concerns about recurring layoffs, recalling a prior experience with pink slips. The urgency of the situation highlights the need for a long-term funding solution to support public transit in the region. Stakeholders emphasize that funding cannot wait until the spring legislative session.