Chicago's New Transit Funding to Revive ADA Ride-Share Program
Governor JB Pritzker’s signed transit funding bill promises to inject an additional $1.5 billion annually into Illinois’ struggling transit systems. However, the new revenue will not start flowing until the second half of 2026, when new taxes are projected to generate about $320 million by year’s end.
Revival of the ADA Ride-Share Program
One of the first initiatives to benefit from this renewed funding is the Americans with Disabilities Act ride-share program, previously under threat of cancellation. State officials confirmed its revival during a special meeting of the Regional Transportation Authority on Thursday.
"There is enough cash expected next year to shore up the system’s workforce and expand an ADA ride-share program," officials said.
Funding Allocation and Timeline
The Regional Transportation Authority has approved updated budget figures for 2026, directing $56 million toward Pace’s Taxi Access Program (TAP) and Ride-share Access Program (RAP). While the new funding marks progress, the much-touted ‘transformational’ improvements to public transit are not anticipated until 2027, when a full $1.2 billion in extra funds should become available for CTA, Metra, and Pace operations.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois transit systems will receive $1.5 billion more annually under the new funding law.
- The ADA ride-share program will be reinstated in 2026.
- Major improvements are expected to begin in 2027 with full funding levels.
Author’s summary: The state’s 2026 transit funding will restore key accessibility services and prepare the ground for major upgrades expected in 2027 across Chicago-area systems.