Chicago’s Public Transit Is in Limbo

Chicago is the latest city to fall off its “fiscal cliff,” failing to guarantee funding for its transit systems.

The lack of funding could cost 3,000 transit workers their jobs.

The CTA could reduce or completely cut service to 50 of its rail stations and be forced to cut 74 of its 127 bus routes.

Chicago 's transit system faces a 50-50 funding split with federal funds running out.

State Sen. Ram Villivalam had proposed legislation to address the fiscal cliff before lawmakers adjourned.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson suggested a tax on the wealthy to shift the burden away from taxes on sales and services.

Springfield punted on both funding and reform measures, leaving Chicagoans in limbo.

If the state can meet the RTA’s $1.5 billion funding request, the results could be transformative.

Wait times could be slashed, fares could be integrated, and the system could become cleaner and safer.