Chicago's New Transit Funding to Boost Disability Ride-Share Program
JB Pritzker has signed legislation that will inject an additional $1.5 billion annually into Illinois' underfunded transit systems, starting in the latter half of 2026. This new revenue, generated through upcoming taxes, is expected to raise nearly $320 million for transit by the end of 2026.
Revival of ADA Ride-Share Program
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ride-share program, previously at risk of being cut, will be renewed thanks to the state’s recent historic transit funding bill, according to officials at a special Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) meeting.
"JB Pritzker’s signature is set to pump an additional $1.5 billion a year into the state’s money-starved transit system."
Timeline and Funding Allocation
The full transformational funding boost for public transit, estimated at $1.2 billion, is expected to take effect in 2027 and will benefit the CTA, Metra, and Pace systems. Meanwhile, the 2026 budget allocates sufficient funds to support the transit workforce and expand transit access programs.
- Approximately $56 million will be allocated to Pace’s Taxi Access Program (TAP) and Ride-share Access Program (RAP).
- New taxes are projected to fund nearly $320 million in transit improvements by the end of 2026.
"The RTA board on Thursday signed off on tweaked budget numbers for 2026 that allocate $56 million to Pace’s Taxi Access Program and Ride-share Access Program, known as TAP and RAP."
Officials emphasize that while 2026 funding will not enable major system overhauls, it will stabilize services and improve accessibility options for riders with disabilities.
Author’s summary: Starting in late 2026, Illinois will begin receiving significant new transit funds, enabling restoration and expansion of key services like the ADA ride-share program, with full funding impacts arriving in 2027.