CHICAGO (WLS) -- As Friday commuters leave for home, the news about Metra's future plans includes higher fares and fewer trains unless there is relief from Springfield.

Discussions are ongoing, as deadlines loom for the region's transportation agencies to prepare budgets.

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On Friday, the High Speed Rail Alliance hosted an event titled "Averting the Cliff," regarding the financial crisis facing Chicago-area transit.

"The Senate passed a really good bill at the end of last session; we would like to see that bill get passed in the House with some minor upgrades," High Speed Rail Alliance Executive Director Rick Harnish said.

On Friday, the Metra Board approved a proposed $1.1 billion budget that includes fare increases next year.

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