SPRINGFIELD — A measure aimed at addressing issues facing the current public transit system in Illinois is headed to the governor, thanks to support from State Senator Robert Peters.

“Reliable, affordable and equitable public transit isn’t just about convenience – it’s the backbone of our state,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “We’re putting forth an initiative that places working people first – connecting them to jobs, to their families and to opportunities – all while implementing no new taxes and no increase in current taxes. This is a huge win for communities across Illinois.”   

Senate Bill 2111 would create the Northern Illinois Transit Authority, replacing the Regional Transportation Authority. The NITA board would comprise of 20 members, with five appointments each from the governor, mayor of Chicago and Cook County Board president, as well as one from each chair or county executive of the collar county boards of DuPage, Kane, McHenry, Lake and Will.

Under the bill, NITA would oversee the Chicago Transit Authority, the Commuter Rail Division – or Metra – and the Suburban Bus Board – or Pace – as a unified service under one regional umbrella. By giving NITA authority over public transit in the Chicago metropolitan area, the goal is to create a more integrated and unified system with a single fare system, coordinated schedules and standardized service.

The measure would also address safety concerns through various reforms, including establishing a transit ambassador program to deploy unarmed staff at transit stations and on vehicles across the system to provide customer service assistance, liaise with social service providers and alert law enforcement to potential criminal activity. Additionally, the bill would create the Office of Transit Safety and Experience through NITA to develop a regional safety strategy, establish and enforce safety standards and liaise with police and social service providers.

“Above all, what we’re doing with this measure is trying to address the critical fiscal cliff that’s threatening public transit – not just for Chicagoans, but for residents across the state,” said Peters. “This is what true reform looks like: prioritizing financial stability, improving services and safety for riders, and increasing reliability and transparency in our transit system. Without this bill, we would see significant cuts to trains and buses that our state’s residents rely on every day for work, school, appointments and so many essential services.”  

Senate Bill 2111 passed the Senate Friday and heads to the governor for further consideration.