CHICAGO — Illinois lawmakers have approved a $1.5 billion transit rescue plan that will increase tolls statewide by 45 cents, a move supporters say is crucial to saving Chicago-area transit systems, while critics argue it shortchanges downstate infrastructure projects.
The legislation — passed after late-night negotiations — aims to stabilize the CTA, Pace, and Metra systems, which lawmakers say are teetering on the edge of a fiscal crisis. Gov. JB Pritzker has said he intends to sign the bill.
Under the plan, the toll hike will help offset an $800 million diversion from the state’s road fund, typically financed through gas taxes. The measure also allows the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) to increase sales taxes by 0.25% to further support transit operations.
“We are building a transit system that will serve people better and make Illinois more competitive,” said State Rep. Eva-Dina Delgado (D-Chicago). She added that the unified system will connect communities and improve safety, reliability, and sustainability.
However, House Republican Leader Tony McCombie criticized the plan, saying it robs downstate projects to benefit the Chicago region. “We don’t need to do this today or at this scale,” McCombie said. “Downstate Illinois will pay the price again.”
The bill passed the Senate around 4 a.m., following intense last-minute debates over funding. Transit leaders praised the measure, saying it prevents fare hikes and service cuts for the foreseeable future.
In a statement, Gov. Pritzker said, “Illinoisans deserve a world-class transportation system that connects communities, drives economic growth, and helps every resident access transit to live, work, and thrive.”
Supporters hope the plan will serve as a national model for integrated transit reform, transforming CTA, Pace, and Metra into a unified regional network.
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