Remember that extra six weeks or so that Gov. Blagojevich bought for the CTA to avoid having to raise fares and cut service? Well, the time's almost up. And guess what? Springfield is still no closer to finding a longterm solution to funding problems with the region's mass transit system. The Legislature hasn't even penciled in a time to meet between now and Nov. 4, the latest deadline for the CTA's doomsday plan. State leaders may be paying lip service to the problem, but that kind of currency won't avert a crisis.
CTA countdown
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Its truly a shame when the cost of living in Chicago is RIDICULOUS. Everyone, and I mean EVERYONE from utilities to the cable company has raised their rates in Chicago. Meters are higher, cabs have raised their rates. And Chicago is leading the way. Everyone is charging more and no employers are raising the cost of living. Its terrible. Chicago is no longer my kind of town.
It is depressing when the voters SIMPLY DO NOT CARE WHAT THEIR EMPLOYEES ARE DOING TO DESTROY the CTA (or their company)! It is actually maddening to know people are more passionate about a stinking sports team who constantly loses, but not its government employees who are stealing them blind.
CTA you are so concerned about money, that you have not looked at solutions that are right at hand.
Why don't the transportation entities in the CHICAGOLAND area combine. Yes join forces. Two members from each CTA, METRA, PACE and RTA, with a tie-breaker (someone not connected with the transportation industry)members would not be paid (most have other jobs in industry that pay EXTREMELY well).
This combined board could save on personnel training, supplies, buses, trains, fuel, replacement parts and utilities. This alone could save between 20 to 40 million dollars a year.
I know how to help the CTA funding problem: Start cutting those big executive salaries. That alone can continue 10 routes and no fare hikes!