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    1. Technology
    2. Fare Collection

    CTA, Pace, Metra release new regional connect pass

    June 9, 2022
    The new regional pass aims to save customers money and offer more flexibility.
    Related To: Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)

    A new fare product is being offered by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra and Pace that, when coupled with Metra’s new Super Saver monthly pass, will give Chicago area residents unlimited rides on all three systems at a reduced cost and with greater flexibility. 

    The Regional Connect Pass will cost $30 and will be sold to holders of an unlimited ride Metra monthly pass. The Regional Connect Pass will provide unlimited rides all month on CTA and Pace with no day or time restrictions. The new pass replaces two current passes available to Metra monthly pass holders: the Link-Up Pass, which for $55 a month provided rides on the CTA during weekday rush hours and on Pace at all times; and the PlusBus Pass, which for $30 a month provided unlimited rides only on Pace. 

    “CTA led the way in offering ultra-affordable passes to our customers last year and we have seen a tremendous response,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “As the transit landscape evolves in response to the pandemic recovery, our agencies are working together to position public transit as the most affordable, most convenient way to travel around the region.” 

    The Regional Connect Pass will be sold alongside Metra’s new Super Saver monthly pass, which will cost $100 during a three-month pilot program starting in July 2022. That means the price for unlimited rides on all three systems will be $130 a month. 

    “The new Metra Super Saver monthly pass is already a great deal, and now the new Regional Connect Pass makes that great deal even better,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski. “Together, we are aiming to make public transportation more affordable and more convenient – and an irresistible alternative to driving and paying for gas and parking.” 

    This new fare product is the latest step by the three regional transit service boards to adjust to changing ridership demand and patterns through regional fare and service coordination and by creating a more seamless transit experience through the Ventra app. 

    “We are thrilled to be able to offer more connectivity between Pace, CTA and Metra. This new pass will simplify transfers between services and offer even more affordability for regional commuters,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. 

    Last year, the CTA lowered the cost of all its unlimited ride passes and made transfers between CTA services free. In addition to lowering the price of its monthly pass, Metra also has introduced new schedules and new day passes.   

    The Chicago Transit Board approved the Regional Connect Pass June 8, and the Pace Board will vote on the pass next week. Once approved, the Regional Connect Pass and Super Saver monthly pass will be available for purchase in the Ventra App and with Metra ticket sales agents starting June 20, 2022.