The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is set to prioritize staffing and improved service in its new $1.9 billion budget for 2024. The CTA’s President, Dorval Carter, spoke before the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) board, highlighting the agency’s commitment to bouncing back after facing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of the main goals for the CTA is to address its staffing shortage by recruiting more rail operators and bus drivers. To achieve this, the agency has increased training class sizes and is exploring ways to expedite the onboarding process without compromising safety. Despite hiring 100 new rail operators this year and projecting a 10% increase in ridership for next year, the CTA still falls short of the workforce needed to provide full service.
In addition to addressing the staffing shortage, the CTA aims to improve service quality and encourage riders to return. The agency plans to invest in new technology to better inform riders of train times and will be implementing additional security measures, such as new cameras and lighting. The CTA also presented a five-year capital plan, including funding for a major Red Line extension and the transition to an electric bus fleet.
Alongside the CTA, Metra, the commuter rail agency, presented its $1.1 billion budget, and Pace, the suburban bus agency, shared its operating budget for next year, totaling $333.3 million. While CTA and Pace will maintain current fare levels, Metra will be revamping its pricing structure in February 2024. All three agencies rely on federal COVID relief money to cover budget gaps, but they anticipate running out of funds by 2026, highlighting the need to find new sources of funding to sustain public transit in the region.
The CTA’s commitment to prioritizing staffing and improved service in its budget reflects its determination to address the challenges faced and provide reliable transportation for the people of Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main focus of the Chicago Transit Authority’s new budget?
The main focus of the new budget is to prioritize staffing and improved service.
2. How does the CTA plan to address its staffing shortage?
The CTA plans to recruit more rail operators and bus drivers and expedite the onboarding process while ensuring rider safety.
3. What measures will be taken to encourage riders to return?
The CTA plans to invest in new technology to inform riders of train times and enhance security with additional cameras and lighting.
4. What major projects are included in the CTA’s five-year capital plan?
The capital plan includes funding for a major Red Line extension and the transition to an electric bus fleet.
5. How are the CTA, Metra, and Pace addressing budget shortfalls?
The agencies rely on federal COVID relief funds, but they anticipate running out of funds by 2026 and recognize the need for new sources of funding.