RTA seeks expanded powers to manage transit agencies amid looming budget deficits
Chicago: Some lawmakers are pushing to merge the city’s four transit agencies this year. They believe this could help secure more state funding and avoid a looming “fiscal cliff.”
By 2026, the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra, and Pace could face a staggering $770 million deficit. This might lead to a 40% cut in bus and rail services, which is pretty alarming.
The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) is stepping in with a plan. RTA Chairman Kirk Dillard wants state lawmakers to give the RTA more power to oversee fares, services, and major projects.
His idea is to let the CTA, Pace, and Metra keep running their daily operations while the RTA manages their budgets. They’d need to submit quarterly reports to ensure they’re meeting set standards.
If an agency isn’t hitting those standards, the RTA would require improvements before releasing funds. Dillard also suggests raising fares by 10% to generate an extra $50 million.
Additionally, the RTA believes it can save another $50 million by cutting down on unnecessary administrative jobs. They’re also looking for an extra $1.5 billion from the state to improve service frequency.
Dillard is optimistic, saying that with the right funding and authority, the RTA can transform the transit system for the better. They want to enhance how people move around and connect with each other.
Public safety is also a big concern, especially with rising transit crime during the pandemic. The RTA plans to increase service frequency and work with local governments to boost officer presence and social services.
Some other proposals include a single-fare system through a centralized app, ride-hailing vouchers for canceled trips, and expanding reduced-fare programs for low-income riders.
Dillard believes a stronger RTA could help secure federal grants, as coordinated projects would cross geographic boundaries. This proposal comes at a crucial time for public transit, which has struggled since COVID-19.
Recently, CTA President Dorval Carter Jr. announced his resignation, adding to the urgency of the situation. The Metropolitan Mobility Authority Act aims to increase transit funding by $1.5 billion annually but also seeks to consolidate the agencies.
Transit leaders have been against consolidation, arguing they’re already efficient and just need more funding to compete with other major transit systems.
For the RTA to expand its authority, state law would need to change. Dillard plans to propose this in Springfield during the upcoming legislative session.
