The RTA led the region's transit system through the COVID-19 pandemic by allocating funds from three major federal relief packages to allow transit operations to continue, transparently sounding the alarm about the looming budget cliff and led educational and advocacy efforts for years leading up to the passage of SB 2111.
Now, for the first time in years, the RTA enters a budget year not preparing for a looming crisis, but instead optimistic for the opportunities ahead. Senate Bill 2111 marks a historic investment that will protect the essential service of today and lay the foundation for the transit of tomorrow. This milestone fulfills the central goal of Transit is the Answer, the region’s 2023 strategic plan, which called for sustainable operating funding to protect and improve transit service.
The region will not begin to see new funding streams materialize until late in calendar year 2026, but it will be a year of investment, stability, and planning for what is ahead. The 2026 budget ensures continuity across the region with no fare increases and no service cuts, but also supports Service Board improvements in reliability, safety, frequency and cleanliness while positioning the system for larger changes ahead.
