Transit agencies in northeastern Illinois are heading toward a fiscal cliff coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic — with an expected budget shortfall of $730 million in 2026 — as emergency federal assistance is expiring and ridership remains below pre-pandemic levels.
Big, bold solutions are needed to secure the financial viability of our region’s transit system. Through all the changes the system has experienced, one central fact remains true: A successful transit system is critical to the success of the region, its economy, health, and environment.
To address these changes, a diverse group of leaders from across northeastern Illinois are developing a Plan of Action for Regional Transit (PART) with recommendations that can help the region invest in a stronger and more financially secure transit system.