Transit Agencies Partner to Offer Integrated Fare Pass, Chicago, IL, 2022

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra, and Pace are introducing the Regional Connect Pass, a supplement to Metra’s $100 Super Saver monthly pass. Metra is currently offering the Super Saver pass on a pilot basis during the Summer season. The Regional Connect Pass costs an additional $30 and grants Metra customers unlimited access to CTA and Pace. Customers can purchase these passes through Metra ticket sales agents or the website or mobile app for Ventra.

Previously, Metra customers could purchase a Link-Up Pass for $55 or a PlusBus Pass for $30 to supplement their commuter rail fares. The Link-Up Pass paid for rush hour rides on CTA and unlimited rides on Pace, and the PlusBus Pass paid only for unlimited rides on Pace. The Super Saver pass offers Metra riders a more intuitive fare payment experience when connecting between CTAs’ trains and buses or Pace’s suburban bus system. Transit ridership is still significantly lower than before the COVID-19 pandemic. These supplementary passes can draw customers back onto Chicagos’ regional transit systems. CTA, Metra, and Pace should continue to explore how to integrate their fare structures to ensure that passengers have more efficient and equitable experiences transferring between their systems.

Last updated June 16, 2022