Metra rolled out a $1.1 billion spending budget that increases fares but ensures continued full commuter service. It expects to provide sturdiness despite post-pandemic funding shortages.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Metra and MBTA each celebrated a major station improvement project that modernized facilities, enhanced accessibility, and delivered long-term benefits for commuters in Chicago and Massachusetts.
Photo – Metra

Metra 2026 Budget Demonstrates Fiscal Responsibility and Expansion

Executive Director and CEO Jim Derwinski stated that the proposal “is not the budget Metra wishes to adopt in 2026. But it’s the budget we must submit.”

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He further stated that lawmakers in the state have not yet closed the funding hole of the agency, thus the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) told Metra to make its plan based on alone certified funding streams.

Derwinski further pointed out that the RTA instructured the agency to “include a scenario in which the Legislature approves at least enough new funding to maintain the status quo.” Since a solution may come through the veto session, Metra still remains cautiously planning while safeguarding crucial services.

Metra Capital Plan Focuses On Up-To-Date Gear and Sustainability

Metra’s $575.3 million capital program centers on long-term reliability and cleaner rail technology. Close to half of the program — $268.2 million — Web supports rolling stock, including $141 million in new multilevel cars from Alstom and $168.2 million in eight battery-electric trainsets from Stadler.

The other capital dollars will upgrade bridges, stations, and communications throughout the network. Those improvements represent Metra’s focus on safe, efficient, and environmentally sound transportation.

The increases, necessitated by the RTA to meet funding shortfalls, will become effective on February 1, 2026, and will vary between 13% and 15% based on ticket type. One-way fares will increase to $1 from 50 cents, day passes to $2 from $1, and a month’s pass to $30 from $10.

Eight public hearings between November 5 and 6 will give commuters a chance to present comment about the proposal. A session will be webcast from Metra headquarters, and it will include web participation and transparency.

Public input, as per Metra officials, remains essential as the agency aims to “balance fiscal sustainability with reliable, safe service for Chicago-area commuters.”

Source: www.trains.com

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What changes are included in the Metra 2026 budget?

The plan includes fare increases between 13% and 15% but no service reductions, plus major investments in new trains and infrastructure upgrades.

When will Metra’s new fares take effect?

The fare changes are scheduled for February 1, 2026, following public hearings in early November.

How does Metra plan to improve sustainability?

Metra will invest in battery-electric trainsets from Stadler and modernize older rolling stock to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency.

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