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CTA Saved From Massive Cuts As State Lawmakers Pass 1.5 Billion Funding Bill For Local Transit

Chicago, ILLocal News

Illinois lawmakers passed a $1. 5 billion funding package early Friday, preventing cuts and layoffs at local transit agencies including the CTA, Metra, and Pace. The Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act addresses a $202 million budget gap projected for 2026 by redirecting state sales tax revenue from motor fuel and increasing tolls on northern Illinois toll roads. Acting CTA President Nora Leerhsen confirmed that the funding will allow for service expansion and investments in new technologies. Governor JB Pritzker praised the legislation, stating that Illinoisans deserve a world-class transportation system.

The bill replaces the RTA with the Northern Illinois Transit Authority, which will have greater authority over transit operations and fare structures. State Rep. Eva-Dina Delgado emphasized the bill’s role in providing sustainable funding and effective governance for public transit. The new authority will have a 20-member board with representatives from Chicago, the governor, Cook County, and collar counties. The legislation aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of public transportation in the region and is set to take effect on September 1.

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Wieners Circle Promised Free Hot Dogs If Bears Coach Ben Johnson Took Off His Shirt. He Did

The Wieners Circle in Lincoln Park offered free hot dogs after Bears Coach Ben Johnson took off his shirt during a post-game speech. Johnson, celebrating the Bears' 24-15 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, excitedly obliged, leading to a promised giveaway day on Tuesday. This follows a similar promotion in September when free hot dogs were given after quarterback Caleb Williams threw four touchdown passes.

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Chicago's Overnight Winter Parking Ban With 200 Violation Fines Returns Monday

Chicago's overnight parking ban resumes Monday, coinciding with a major snowstorm expected to bring over 10 inches of snow. The ban, enforced on 107 miles of main streets daily from 3 a.m. to 7 p.m., includes hefty fines for violators. City officials emphasize that this consistent rule improves snow removal operations.

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ICE Takes Kurdish Asylum Seeker The Day Before His Wife Became A US Citizen 'I Cannot Do This Alone'

Eva Gurtovaia celebrated her U.S. citizenship on Wednesday while her husband, Enes Abak, remained detained by immigration agents just a day earlier. Abak, a Kurdish asylum seeker from Turkey, faces challenges due to his pending political asylum application and fears for his safety if returned to his home country. Local supporters rallied to express their concerns over his detention and advocate for his release.