Illinois lawmakers failed to pass legislation on May 31 that would prevent “doomsday” cuts to public transit in and around Chicago. The failure means that Metra, Chicago Transit Authority and Pace bus service will all have to make major cuts in the months ahead. 

The Regional Transportation Authority, which oversees the three agencies, is facing a $770 million deficit largely due to the end of federal funding related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although legislation to reform the RTA and provide funding passed through the state Senate, it failed to reach the House floor before the May 31 deadline. While it’s possible that the legislature could address the budget shortfall during an upcoming special session, the RTA is now starting the process of cutting its budget to the amount it anticipates receiving next year from the state. The Chicago Sun-Times reports that around 3,000 workers could be laid off in the coming months. 

Earlier this spring, RTA outlined potential cuts. Four of the CTA’s eight rail lines could be suspended, resulting in the closure of 50 stations. Metra would need to reduce service by 40 percent, which would eliminate early-morning and late-night trains. Lines like the BNSF connecting downtown Chicago and Aurora might see a reduction, halving its 91-train schedule. Metra would also have to suspend service completely on the Metra Electric Blue Island Branch. —Justin Franz