CHICAGO - Two weeks after the first subject matter hearing on the state of public transit, Senate Transportation Chair Ram Villivalam held a hearing on the accessibility and equity of public transit.

“Public transit needs to be accessible and equitable for all within our community as it bolsters the ability for everyone to reach essential resources such as health care, education and jobs,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “As transit riders express their concerns of continued delays and lack of service, it is imperative to have these conversations to see how we can ensure that public transit works for all.”

Transit agencies saw a sharp ridership decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, and are in the process of returning to pre-pandemic numbers. Riders are still experiencing ongoing delays, lack of service, or no routes, which continues to present a challenge for them daily.

Villivalam is holding a series of subject matter hearings over the coming months to continue conversations on how public transit can continue to serve communities and ensure that everyone will have access to transportation that is affordable, reliable and accessible.

Wednesday’s hearing covered accessibility and equity of transit for riders. The committee heard testimony from key stakeholders including Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. Conversations included how the current system is working for riders, and what issues they are facing that are hindering its accessibility and equity.

“I am grateful for the continued robust conversations about the state of public transit within Illinois, particularly about its accessibility and equity for riders,” said Villivalam. “As ridership continues to return to pre-pandemic levels, it is imperative that we have conversations about how transit can continue to best serve our communities.”

More hearings will continue in the coming months, with the next being on Friday, Aug. 9, at 10 a.m. to include DuPage, Will, and Kendall counties. The hearing will focus on supporting community quality of life.

Exact locations of the hearings are to be determined. Additional hearings or adjustments to the schedule may arise. Villivalam will announce the remaining locations of the hearings and any other relevant information on his website and social media.