Chicago's New Transit Funding to Revive Disability Ride-Share Program by 2026
Governor JB Pritzker’s recent signature on a major state funding bill will infuse about $1.5 billion annually into Illinois’ struggling transit systems. However, the new funds will not start flowing until the latter half of 2026, when new taxes are expected to generate nearly $320 million in transit revenue, according to state officials.
“An Americans with Disabilities Act ride-share program that was on the chopping block is set to be revived with money from the state’s historic transit funding bill,” officials announced during a special meeting of the Regional Transportation Authority on Thursday.
While 2026 funding may not be enough for a major overhaul of public transportation, officials anticipate that 2027 will bring around $1.2 billion in additional funds for the CTA, Metra, and Pace systems. In 2026, available funding will primarily stabilize the transit workforce and support expanded accessibility programs.
The Regional Transportation Authority board approved updated 2026 budget figures that include $56 million for Pace’s Taxi Access Program and Ride-share Access Program, better known as TAP and RAP.
Projected Timeline for Funding
- Late 2026: New state taxes expected to produce about $320 million in transit revenue.
- 2027: Full impact of a $1.2 billion increase for CTA, Metra, and Pace anticipated.
Impact on Accessibility
Restoring the ADA ride-share initiatives marks a significant step toward improving transportation access for people with disabilities, reflecting the state’s broader goal of inclusive transit infrastructure.
Author’s summary: Illinois’ upcoming transit funding will revive key accessibility programs in 2026 and pave the way for broader system transformation in 2027.