Metra & Chicago Transit: $1.7B for Illinois Rail Infrastructure

“`html

Introduction

Metra approved a $1.2 billion operating budget for 2026 and a $515.3 million capital plan, following the Illinois Legislature’s approval of $1.2 billion in annual funding for Chicago-area transit agencies on Oct. 31.

Main Content

Budget Approvals

Metra’s board approved its 2026 operating and capital budgets this week. The Illinois Legislature voted on Oct. 31 to approve $1.2 billion in annual funding for Chicago-area transit agencies.

Operating Budget

The approved operating budget for Metra in 2026 is $1.2 billion.

Capital Plan Projects

The $515.3 million capital plan includes funding for several projects.

• Acquisition of new rail cars.
• Purchase of zero-emission trainsets and trailer cars.
• Rehabilitation of Nippon Sharyo Highliner 2 rail cars.
• Rehabilitation of Amerail rail cars.
• Renovation of the Van Buren Street Station.
• New ties, ballast and switch heaters for Metra lines.
• Dedicated program management costs.

Chicago Transit Authority

The Chicago Transit Authority also approved its 2026 capital and operating budgets this week.

Conclusion

Metra and the Chicago Transit Authority approved their respective 2026 capital and operating budgets. These approvals followed the Illinois Legislature’s decision on Oct. 31 to provide $1.2 billion in annual funding for Chicago-area transit agencies.

Company Summary

Metra: A Chicago commuter railroad.

Chicago Transit Authority: A public transit agency.

“`