RTA Chairman Dillard Speaks at City Club: Year of Irony for Public Transit

December 1, 2017

RTA Chairman Kirk Dillard spoke today at Chicago’s City Club.  He is a true advocate for more funding for public transportation in our region, and his remarks really hit home with everyone.

He called 2017 the “Year of Irony” and pointed to the our system’s funding needs: we are a vital part of our regional and state economy and yet Illinois has not passed a capital bill since 2009; federal funding is limited; and the long awaited State budget delivered cuts and real challenges to CTA, Metra and Pace.

He noted that when we inherit a beautiful dining room table from our grandmother, we take care of it!  Won’t let anyone put a coffee mug on it! But, when it comes to the public transportation system we have inherited, we just assume it will be there. He warned that we should not.

Chairman Dillard also encouraged riders to review the draft of the RTA’s new strategic plan which can be found here.  He spoke of his eternal optimism about our city and region and the fact that public transportation saves us all time and money–and is a magnet for employers and the talent they seek.

The Chairman reiterated that the continued collaboration between the RTA, CTA, Metra and Pace during these challenging financial times is key to the future success of public transportation in our region.

Please take a few minutes to view his remarks.

We wish you all Happy Holidays and remind everyone to Ride On.