During 2025, the General Assembly intends to consider reforming the transit agencies that provide service to the Chicago metro region. This effort is likely to include proposals exploring additional funding for, and consolidation of, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra, and Pace—into a single entity. These agencies are confronted with an estimated $730 million budget shortfall by 2026. To date, the affected transit agencies are proposing a legislative solution limited to increased funding. The General Assembly and Governor have indicated that any additional funding from the state must be accompanied by significant reforms changing how the agencies are structured and operated.
The Chicago metro region's transit services affect several ISACo member counties. Opinions about what governance, structure and operational changes should be supported or opposed is likely to vary among the affected counties. For this reason ISACo will not take a formal position on the various proposals unless each of the affected counties are in full agreement on one or more of the proposals under consideration.
ISACo will undertake an active role in providing a platform, information and analysis regarding the proposals and process to ensure our member counties are well informed. This resource page will contribute toward these purposes. Additional news and information will be added as it becomes available.
ISACo Resources
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Legislative Information
HB 5823 - Metropolitan Mobility Authority Act
SB 3937 - Metropolitan Mobility Authority Act
HB 5828 - Metropolitan Mobility Authority Act Appropriation Bill
Outside Reports
Reforming Mass Transit Governance in the Chicago Region (Civic Federation)
Media Coverage
Illinois Lawmaker Unveil Proposal to Merge CTA, Metra and Pace; Would Replace RTA and Add $1.5 billion in New Funding (WTTW)
Advocates, Riders Renew Calls for Public Transit Reform in Chicagoland Region (WAND)
Transit Agency Leaders Push Back on Calls to Merge Pace, CTA, Metra (Daily Herald)
Illinois State Lawmakers Discuss Proposed Merger of 3 Mass Transit Agencies (CBS News Chicago)