Riders wait at the Rosemont Transit Center, which combines Pace and CTA service, on Wednesday. The two agencies and Metra face a massive shortfall in 2026. Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com

With an imminent fiscal crisis erupting, Regional Transportation Authority leaders shifted millions of dollars from Metra and Pace to help forestall 40% CTA service reductions Thursday.

“There’s this death spiral whenever transit agencies cut back on service,” RTA Director Dennis Mondero of Chicago said. “Our region may never recover … so that’s why we’re trying to buy the time, so our leaders in Springfield may come up with a sensible solution.”

RTA directors also discussed fare increases and caps on a popular but over-budget rideshare program for passengers with disabilities — amid objections.

“Th

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