Illinois Lawmakers Given More Time to Address CTA Service Cuts

As a result of anticipated 2026 budget cuts, funds originally set aside for both Metra and Pace are now being reallocated to the Chicago Transit Authority to help extend services further into next year. This has given legislators in the state more time to address the previously made cuts and attempt to fill the budget gap CTA is expected to suffer in 2026.

The decision to reallocate the $74 million made by the Regional Transportation Authority board came unanimously. Though a temporary measure, it’s a step in the right direction to delaying the 40% cut. While it seems like a large gesture, this will only delay service cuts by two or three months, still requiring swift action by legislators.

Though all three agencies are still currently operating with the assistance of COVID-19 grants, the CTA is set to run out of funds prior to both Metra and Pace. The multi-million-dollar budget gap the CTA is now facing is a result of grant funds having run out. Board members are hoping this reallocation shows legislators that the agencies are willing to work together, however, a budget increase is still needed for full operations to continue. While the Senate recently had a funding bill passed, the House never picked it up. Lawmakers are still hoping to have a final bill to vote on during the fall veto session.

Kevin Bueso, the Regional Transportation Authority’s CFO, says the newly extended sales tax, now applying to online transactions, has increased funding for the transit agencies by roughly $12 million per month. Regardless of this small win, state lawmakers coming to an agreement is still the only thing standing between citizens paying higher fares and receiving less services in the upcoming months. Another RTA board member, Dennis Mondero, expressed concerns of a “death spiral” from which the city “may never recover” if we come to see the 40% reduction play out next year.

While this reallocation extends services for a few more months, the question as to whether Chicago will continue to have a functioning transportation system for its citizens rests in the hands of Illinois lawmakers.