Dorval Carter Jr. retires as CTA president, leaving behind a budget crisis and service issues for his successor to tackle
Just days before his announcement, the CTA got a $2 billion federal boost to extend the Red Line. But Carter faced a lot of heat over the years. Riders have been frustrated with inconsistent service, safety issues, and dirty trains.
Mayor Brandon Johnson praised Carter for his service, highlighting his role in the Red Line Extension project. Carter, who was the first African-American president of the CTA, has been a key figure in securing federal funding and modernizing the system.
However, as pandemic funds dry up, the CTA is in a tough spot. Ridership has dropped, and crime on public transport has been a major concern. Carter struggled to motivate a demoralized workforce, and the CTA’s recovery has lagged behind other cities.
His retirement comes after investigations revealed he spent more time traveling than addressing issues at home. Riders have been vocal about their dissatisfaction, even organizing protests for leadership changes.
Advocacy groups see this as a chance for a fresh start. They hope the next president will engage with the community and improve service reliability.
Carter’s departure marks a significant shift for the CTA, which has faced mounting pressure for years. He’s been the longest-serving president since the early 2000s, but the challenges ahead for his successor are daunting.
