Access Pilot Program extends through December 31, 2026, providing reduced fares for Metra riders with low incomes

The RTA, Metra, and Cook County are extending the Access Pilot Program, which provides reduced fares on the entire Metra system to riders experiencing low incomes. The program is a partnership between Metra, Cook County, and the RTA with Cook County providing most of the operating funding. The pilot was set to end in January 2026, but in light of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act—which will provide an estimated $1.2 billion in additional annual operating funding to the regional transit system—and Cook County’s commitment to continue to provide funding for this vital service, the program will now last through at least December 31, 2026. No action is required for existing customers, who will be able to keep using the same permit through the end of the year.

Using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for eligibility, the Access Pilot Program built upon the success of the Fair Transit South Cook pilot, which offered a reduced fare on the Metra Electric and Rock Island lines to all riders. More than 7,400 Access permits have been issued since it launched in February 2024—contributing to the overall ridership momentum the system has built since the pandemic. Nearly 270,000 rides have been taken using the pilot so far, a majority of which were on the Metra Electric and Rock Island Lines that were served by the Fair Transit South Cook pilot.

One Metra rider enrolled in the Access Pilot Program, Tiana Love of Chicago, said she and her family ride Metra much more often now that she’s able to purchase tickets at a reduced fare.

“My husband doesn’t drive, and his mother lives in Schaumburg, so instead of driving, we get on Metra now,” Love said. “I have kids, so the train ride is a lot more interesting,” she added with a laugh. “They like the train.”

Love said the application process was quick and easy, and having access to Metra makes certain trips much more convenient.

“Without Access, I would have to drive …,” she said. “I get tired of driving sometimes. When you’re the driver, you can’t look at the scenery and enjoy the view—and I hate traffic. [Riding Metra at a reduced fare,] we save a lot of money, so now we have enough money left over for the next week.”

The future of affordable fare programs

Given new state funding, the RTA is exploring expanding the Access Pilot program to CTA and Pace service—a key recommendation from a fare equity study conducted by the RTA at the request of the General Assembly. Other fare affordability programs for older adults and people with disabilities exist, administered by the RTA’s Mobility Services department, to keep transit accessible to all riders. Unsure what fare program is right for you? See the RTA Fare Programs flow chart to find out what program fits your needs.

Interested in applying for the Access Pilot Program? Visit GetAccess.org.