Should seniors and people with disabilities ride for free?
Governor Blagojevich has already included language in the transit funding bill that allow seniors 65 and up to ride the CTA, Metra and Pace for free. Now, he's talking about putting a provision in the next state budget that would do the same for people with disabilities.
Think this is a good idea, or will it put an undue burden on the transit agencies to make up for the lost revenue? The CTA said it could be out at least $20 million a year providing free rides to seniors, and for Metra, it'll cost $8 million to $10 million.
Speaking of Metra, officials there announced yesterday that they're still planning to go ahead with a 10 percent fare hike on Feb. 1, even if the transit funding package is passed by the General Assembly.
Share your thoughts.
Comments
WHEN SENIORS PROPERLY USE THERE REDUCE TRANSITS CARDS(WITH THEIR PHOTO) THEY WILL GET THREE RIDS FOR A DOLLAR FOR THE GOV, TO EVEN SUGGEST A FREE RIDE WILL PUT EVEN MORE PRESSURE ON OPERATORS,TRYING TO DO THEIR JOBS. THIS CRAZY IDEAL NEEDS TO BE PUT ON THE BACK BURNER,FOR FUTHURE REVEIW.IN THE MEAN TIME LET'S KEEP CHICAGO MOVING
Posted by: william steele | January 13, 2008 05:08 PM
If the Mayor is so worried about the CTA and Metra losing millions of dollars if the seniors (Age 65 and above) ride free then why isn't he worried about the police riding every day for free. I think the cops could afford the daily fare more than a senior who is on a fixed income.
Posted by: John Delozier | January 14, 2008 12:44 PM
Governor's idea is looney - how many years before the baby boomers hit 65? I think he is grandstanding and trying to create something "positive" for his legacy.
How soon can we get him out? Recall - a great idea.
Give a discount to seniors and disabled people who register and qualify - that's fine.
Posted by: south looper | January 14, 2008 08:08 PM
Allowing seniors and people with disabilities to ride for free is a great idea but not original. However, Daley does deserve his "props" for trying. This program was already implented in several other states and has been very successful.
The less they pay in "car fare" may be the less I pay in taxes to support other transport programs.
And a cop riding the bus does pay... I'd Consider risking your life daily to maintain safety on public transportation, payment. Therefore, the body occupying the seat doesn't matter.
Posted by: Anonymous | January 15, 2008 11:56 AM
I did not think that there were so many senior haters in chicago area. try living on what they take home every month then see how you make ends meet. Im not a senior yet and both my parents are dead.I work for the great city of chicago and there is a lot of waste and I think anyone with a badge need to pay I dont know any under paid police or court worker with a badge that can't afford to pay.
Posted by: richard bivins | January 15, 2008 01:25 PM
Police officers aren't the only ones on the train risking their lives; every person who is on that train is risking his/her life. In fact, every person who bothers to roll out of bed in the morning and venture out into the urban wilderness is putting their life in their own hands. Cops don't hold the cornerstone on bravery.
Posted by: Bobby K. | January 15, 2008 02:40 PM
greedy seniors should pay their own way.
most of them have money.
others should just stay home or get jobs.
they are lazy and greedy.
Posted by: deroy | January 16, 2008 01:58 AM
Absolutely, no free rides, it is a foolish attempt by Gov. Blagojevich to save face in his promise not to raise taxes.
No new taxes; cut espenses and raise fares to achieved a workable budget.
Posted by: D.W. | January 16, 2008 01:37 PM