RTA launches Fare Programs Online 2.0, streamlining rider applications for Reduced Fare, Ride Free, Access Pilot programs
The RTA has launched Fare Programs Online 2.0, an enhanced version of its customer portal that makes it easier and more accessible for riders to apply for an...
December 16, 2025
ADA paratransit certified riders can now ride free on fixed-route CTA, Metra, and Pace service
Effective October 1, 2025, fixed-route CTA, Pace, and Metra will be free for ADA paratransit certified riders. This applies to CTA and Pace buses, the CTA ‘L...
October 9, 2025
RTA debuts new ADA Paratransit, Ride Free, and Reduced Fare materials to improve user experience
On May 1, the RTA launched a collection of newly designed brochures, flyers, applications, and fare cards for the ADA Paratransit, Ride Free, and Reduced Far...
May 2, 2024
Coalition members provide feedback on rider safety, free and reduced fare programs, and legislative goals
Over 80 riders, agency staff, advocates, and other stakeholders met virtually with the RTA on April 10 for the fourth quarterly Transit is the Answer Coaliti...
April 12, 2024
How survivors of gender-based violence are using transit passes provided by the RTA
In November 2023, RTA provided 25,000 transit passes loaded with $20 each to The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence, an Illinois membership organi...
March 19, 2024
RTA makes enhancements to ADA Paratransit Certification and fare programs
The RTA’s Mobility Services department has made a variety of recent enhancements to two programs that improve access to transportation for older adults and p...
August 22, 2023
Fare Programs Online gains popularity among Reduced Fare and Ride Free permit applicants
More than 19,000 applications have been submitted using the RTA’s Fare Programs Online since it launched in January 2022. The web-based customer portal allow...
October 4, 2022
New online portal increases access to RTA’s Reduced Fare and Ride Free permits
Gerard Wagner uses public transportation for everything. The 71-year-old retired engineer lives car-free by choice in the Lincoln Park neighborhood in Chicag...
January 18, 2022
