Even though ridership is up five percent, the Chicago Transit Authority is $30 million over its $1.2 billion budget.
As a result, the CTA will be eliminating 80
administrative positions, saving nearly five million dollars in the process.
Still, the more controversial issue facing the
Transit Authority and the city is its Free Ride for Seniors Program. With a loss of tax revenues and an increase in fuel costs, the program adds up to $30 million in additional costs for the CTA.
While the governor supports the CTA’s budget and the program,
public outcry is forcing the Transit Authority to look elsewhere, like its payroll, to operate.
In efforts to save roughly $40 million for next year, the CTA will make cutbacks in maintenance and its overtime allowance.