CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - Transit officials launched what they’re calling the Access Pilot Program today at Union Station, giving lower-income riders lower fares on Metra trains.
The reduced fare program is a system-wide expansion of the South Cook program, which offered regional reduced fares for qualifying Metra riders.
Anyone eligible for SNAP benefits can now ride Metra trains anywhere at half price.
“The program is offering essentially a 50% discount across all Metra fares for people who are SNAP eligible across the entire six county region,” said Leanne Redden, Regional Transit Authority (RTA) executive director.
Cook County is putting up $6 million to fund the program through July of next year.
“The Access Pilot Program specifically targets households who will benefit the most from affordable transit options,” Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said.
People can sign up on the RTA website.
The CTA and PACE are not part of the program that was announced Thursday in the Great Hall at Union Station.
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