The Federal Transit Administration has opened a safety inspection into the Illinois Department of Transportation over how it oversees the Chicago Transit Authority, according to a letter and statement released Tuesday.
In a letter to IDOT Secretary Gia Biagi, FTA Chief Safety Officer Joe DeLorenzo said the agency found “repeated and persistent deficiencies” in the state’s oversight. The letter points to limited on-site presence, weak accident investigations and little use of enforcement powers, raising concerns about risks to riders and workers.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy criticized Illinois leaders, saying they have not done enough to keep transit safe. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker responded on social media, calling the federal action a “sham investigation” and accusing the administration of focusing on politics.
The inspection will examine how IDOT reviews safety incidents, enforces changes and evaluates risks on the CTA system, including protections for workers on or near tracks.
CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen said in a statement: “CTA's Security Enhancement Plan was created with our employees and riders in mind. With notice today that the funds at risk will not be withheld from CTA at this time, we will move forward with its continued implementation. Through strong collaboration with our partners in law enforcement and social services, our comprehensive plan takes a holistic approach to security for those traveling on CTA.”