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The RTA invites applications for Operating and Capital Projects |
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Federal dollars to help improve mobility and access for the region’s older adults, persons with disabilities, and low-income individuals
Chicago -- The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) is working with the CTA, Metra and Pace to offer free public transit rides on fixed routes for senior citizens ages 65 and over who live in the service region that includes the counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will. Legislation for the free rides was passed last week by the Illinois General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Blagojevich through an amendatory veto related to House Bill 656 that will provide $530 million in operating funds to northeastern Illinois’ transit system along with additional governance reforms plus healthcare and pension reforms for the CTA.
The RTA has 60 days to implement the free rides service for senior citizens and is now working with the Service Boards on program administration.
“It will take us a few weeks to pull all the details together. When we have everything worked out, we will publicly announce all the details throughout the region,” said Steve Schlickman, RTA Executive Director.
In the meantime, seniors can apply for the RTA reduced fare program that enables senior citizens who are within three weeks of their 65th birthday or older, qualified veterans, and qualified persons with disabilities to ride all RTA services at a reduced rate. Call the RTA Travel Information Center at 312-836-7000 or TTY: 312-836-4949 for information on how to apply for an RTA Reduced Fare Card.
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