The new leadership will preserve all previous services and bus and train operators.
The new Northern Illinois Transit Authority took control of the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra commuter railroad and Pace suburban bus service on Sept. 1. The NITA replaces the previous Regional Transit Authority, finalizing a year-long restructuring that will preserve all previous services and train and bus operators.
The new legislation also provides over $1.3 billion in operating funds, which stem from a quarter-percent sales tax hike in the NITA region and a portion of the state’s gas tax revenues. In 2025, the RTA projected a $1.2 billion budget-gap by 2027 if the state's transit did not receive additional funding, Dan Zukowski writes for Smart Cities Dive.
“The new authority said it would enhance transparency and accountability and prioritize investments based on system needs and clear performance criteria. It also promises simpler and more affordable fares, with fare-capping and expanded reduced-fare programs,” Smart Cities Dive reports.
Read the full story: Chicago-area transit agencies start operating under new regional authority
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City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
Montrose County
Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA)
The Pocatello Development Authority