SPRINGFIELD- State Senator Ram Villivalam introduced a measure to ensure safe, reliable, accessible, and integrated service in the northeastern Illinois region.

“As someone who grew up using public transit and as someone who represents thousands of constituents who are reliant on public transit to get to their school, doctor, and place of work, I am committed to implementing the bold policies needed to achieve a robust public transit system,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It is imperative that we continue to improve public transit to ensure that it works for all of our residents and that the system is accountable to the taxpayers.”

Currently, the RTA region is expected to hit a $730 million fiscal cliff by 2026, as COVID federal funding is set to run out while the region is also experiencing continued issues such as lack of service, late buses, or coordinated service.

Senate Bill 5 would combine the Regional Transit Authority, Chicago Transit Authority, Metra, and PACE, into one entity referred to as the Metropolitan Mobility Authority, as well as outline its responsibilities for public transit in the region.

For riders, the Metropolitan Mobility Authority act seeks to provide reliable service that is safe, accessible, coordinated and equitable for all public transit users through a new and unified authority that oversees all bus, rail and paratransit operations.

“This measure will work to ensure that our riders not only have a governance model that supports the daily operations of our bus, rail and paratransit systems, but an authority that will be able to collaborate and make changes more effectively,” said Villivalam. “Illinoisans deserve a public transit system that they can count on.”

Senate Bill 5 is currently awaiting assignment to a Senate Committee.