Illinois is confronting a $770 million transit funding shortfall that may leave thousands of commuters without access to essential bus and rail services as early as this weekend. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Illinois is confronting a $770 million transit funding shortfall that may leave thousands of commuters without access to essential bus and rail services as early as this weekend
Photo: Transit Cuts Chicago

Across the United States, transit agencies are struggling with the financial aftershocks of the pandemic, but Illinois stands out due to the scale of its looming crisis. Without swift legislative action, the Chicago Transit Authority may cut half its rail lines and dozens of bus routes.

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The impact would be devastating for residents in underserved suburbs like Harvey. Many, including seniors like Winfred Wilson, depend entirely on public transit to shop, work, and visit family across the region.

Illinois Transit Cuts Would Hit Suburbs Like Harvey Hard

Pace’s Harvey station remains the busiest hub for suburban buses and paratransit users. Local officials secured federal and state funds to build a modern transfer center connecting buses and commuter trains in one central location.

Plans also include a direct bus corridor to the Red Line in downtown Chicago. But without consistent service, the station’s promise could vanish. Pace warns that weekend and late-night operations may be suspended entirely.

Cheyane Felton, a Harvey resident, fears isolation. “It would cut us off,” she said, describing the potential loss of nighttime and weekend mobility. The economic risks for Harvey, where over 25% of residents live in poverty, are immense.

Illinois Lawmakers Debate Reform as Transit Agencies Await Funds

Elsewhere, cities like Philadelphia and San Francisco face similar budget gaps, though some have implemented measures like congestion pricing or redirected highway funds. Illinois has yet to reach consensus.

A proposal to unify Chicago’s transit agencies under a single authority has gained traction, aiming to improve coordination and efficiency. Governor J.B. Pritzker voiced support, saying current governance fails to serve riders effectively.

Transit leaders warn that delays in funding could force irreversible damage. Even if money arrives later, restoring lost service would take months. Harvey’s Mayor Christopher Clark remains cautiously hopeful, insisting that investment must continue.

Source: www.barchart.com

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