CHICAGO ─ To ensure residents across the 8^th District have accessible transportation options, State Senator Ram Villivalam helped secure the future of the Niles Free Bus Program.

“I am grateful for the steadfast effort between the Village of Niles and Pace to secure a contract ensuring that our community members have safe, reliable, accessible, and integrated transportation options that get them to their school, job, doctor's appointment, and much more” said Villivalam (D-Chicago).

The Village of Niles operates the Niles Free Bus Program – a courtesy bus system operation within Village limits at no charge to residents in conjunction with Pace. The busses run continuously from 9:30 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. Monday through Sunday and stop at all major shopping centers, public facilities and within a short stop of every residence.

CHICAGO ─ Illinois public transit leaders State Senator Ram Villivalam, State Representative Eva-Dina Delgado and State Representative Kam Buckner, released a statement following the Chicago Transit Authority revised security plan announcement:

“We are encouraged by the steps taken to improve safety on the Chicago Transit Authority, including connecting riders with social services and housing programs in coordination with the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services, implementing safe ride specialists’ initiatives and providing additional law enforcement presence.

SPRINGFIELD ─ State Senator Ram Villivalam is spearheading a measure that would ensure townships are able to provide additional food assistance to residents.

“In November, many across our community had to worry about where their next meal was going to come from as a result of SNAP funds being frozen,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “This severely impacted our local food banks and pantries who began working overtime to try to fill the gap and ensure our neighbors were fed.”

SPRINGFIELD ─ After hearing the governor’s budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2027, State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“The proposed budget provides an initial framework that prioritizes working-class families, education for our youth and ensures that critical services our community members rely on continue to stay accessible and affordable for all.