The USD 2.16 billion operating budget of Chicago Transit Authority has been approved which will maintain current fares, enhance bus and rail services beyond pre-pandemic levels and support continued investments in infrastructure and technology.
The approved budget reflects an 8.1 percent increase over 2024’s budget and priorities the investments that address what’s most important to passengers, including system security, accessibility, reliability and safety.
Key initiatives include ongoing workforce recruitment and training to maintain elevated service levels, especially during peak hours, and implementing enhanced customer communication tools. These enhancements aim to deliver a safer, more reliable and seamless transit experience. The CTA is also earmarking USD 3.3 million, or 5% of the Security budget, which will be used to solicit community input for the development of future pilots aimed at improving public safety.
In 2024, the rail services have seen marked improvements, with service levels now restored to pre-pandemic levels, and service reliability reaching 96%. CTA is on track to meet its goal of training 200 new rail operators by the end of the year.
The separate USD 6.96 billion investment programme of Chicago Transit Authority for 2025 – 2029 emphasises critical projects to strengthen infrastructure, promote accessibility, and support new technology.
This includes several projects:
- Red and Purple modernisation (RPM) Phase One: Expected completion of Lawrence, Argyle, Berwyn, and Bryn Mawr station reconstruction projects.
- Red Line extension (RLE): New track and station construction is expected to begin in late 2025 and be completed in 2030, to extend the Red Line to city’s southern limits, improving access for the Far South Side.
- Accessibility: Six newly accessible stations planned for 2025 with USD 37 million allocated for elevator replacement.
- Fleet modernisation: Continued production of the 7000-series railcars and overhauls of 5000-series trains, along with facility updates to accommodate electric buses.
- Operations Control and Training Facility: Planned construction of a new 24/7 operations and training center in West Garfield Park, set to support over 10,000 employees
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