The Chicago Transit Authority is launching a new program called “CTA Chats”—a series of pop-up events where riders can share feedback that will play a role in the agency’s ongoing budget discussions.
Pop ups to bring riders and transit leaders together
The free pop-ups will take place at CTA train stations and bus stops throughout the summer. Riders will directly engage with CTA leaders, who will be on-site to answer questions and hear concerns.
Additionally, commuters will get to participate in interactive activities to share their views.
Scheduled dates, times, and locations
- Union Station Transit Center – June 10 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Illinois Medical District (Blue Line) – June 11 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Garfield (Green Line) – June 12 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Navy Pier Bus Terminal – June 14 | 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
- Loyola (Red Line) – June 17 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Paulina & Howard Bus Terminal – June 18 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Belmont/Kimball (Blue Line Bus Terminal) – June 19 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- 95th Dan Ryan (Red Line) – June 21 | 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
- Jefferson Park (Blue Line) Bus Terminal – June 24 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Roosevelt (Red/Orange Green Line) – June 25 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Midway Orange Line Bus Terminal – June 26 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
“Engaging with our riders provides invaluable insights into how transit currently serves their daily lives and supports their communities, while also allowing riders to provide us feedback on the improvements they would like to see,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen in a release.
“We are in a unique time for transit in our region, and it [sic] important that decisions we are making and projects and programs we are prioritizing are grounded in our riders’ priorities and vision for the future.”
RTA grapples with $770 million shortage
The launch of CTA Chats comes as the broader Regional Transportation Authority—which includes CTA, Metra, and Pace—faces a projected $770 million funding shortfall come fiscal year 2026.
Following the close of the Illinois spring legislative session earlier this month, state lawmakers are expected to take up the issue during a special session later this year.
Learn more about the CTA Chats program here.