Illinois Transit Bill Could Deliver the First Real Money for Intercity Rail

This fall, Illinois lawmakers will decide whether to embrace a transportation future that connects every corner of the state—or let a once-in-a-generation opportunity slip away.

If Illinois—with Chicago as the nation’s rail hub—commits to building a modern, integrated rail network, it could reshape how America thinks about trains.

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What We Pushed For

Earlier this year, we worked with legislators to introduce bills putting trains back at the center of Illinois’ transportation future. We called for dedicated funding to plan, build, and operate a dynamic statewide railway program—fast, frequent trains connecting communities large and small, supported by intercity buses filling the gaps.

We envision a future where hopping on a train to visit family downstate, catch a concert in another city, or commute to a job just about anywhere would be as natural as driving is today.

What Made It Into HB3438

The bill isn’t everything we asked for, but it’s still a landmark achievement:

For the first time ever, state transit funds can be used for intercity passenger rail. Up to $135 million can now support intercity rail projects connecting communities across Illinois.

The bill also lays groundwork for transforming Metra from rush-hour commuter service into true regional rail—running all day, in all directions, serving everyone. It creates a planning body to coordinate trains, buses, and local transit statewide. And it stabilizes funding for transit agencies facing a fiscal cliff that would otherwise force brutal service cuts starting January 2026.

Plus, there’s $200 million annually for downstate transit infrastructure—money that strengthens local systems and creates better connections to intercity routes.

Why This Bill Matters Beyond Chicago

This isn’t just about saving Metra or the CTA. A strong transit foundation in northeastern Illinois creates momentum for rail expansion across the entire state.

When California pioneered the “Integrated Network Approach”—treating high-speed rail as part of a coordinated system rather than a standalone project—it changed how planners think about passenger rail. Now Illinois has a chance to prove this model works in the Midwest.

If Illinois succeeds, other states will follow.

Our Priorities for Strengthening the Bill

HB3438 is a breakthrough, but it needs improvements before it becomes law. We’re pushing lawmakers to:

1. Make the $135 million cap an annual limit, not a lifetime ceiling. Rail networks grow over time—funding should too.
2. Expand eligibility beyond just “startup” projects. Existing routes need upgrades, extensions, and improvements. The language should support all intercity rail projects.
3. Add operating support for intercity buses. Buses are essential for connecting smaller communities to the rail network while infrastructure is built out.
4. Ensure Metra’s transformation into regional rail. The bill sets the stage—we need to make sure it delivers frequent, bidirectional service that works for everyone.

The Stakes Are High

Without HB3438, transit agencies will slash service on January 1, 2026. Metra, CTA, and Pace face cuts up to 40%. Communities will lose connections. Riders will lose options. And momentum for a statewide rail vision will stall.

But if the House passes this bill—especially with our improvements—Illinois will take a giant leap forward. We’ll prove that states can build modern, integrated transportation networks that serve cities and rural areas alike.

What Happens Next

The House returns to Springfield in October for the veto session. That’s when HB3438 will face its crucial vote. Passing it requires a supermajority, which means downstate support is critical.

Email your state representative today. Tell them you support HB3438—and that you want it strengthened with annual intercity rail funding, broader project eligibility, and support for intercity buses.

Tell them Illinois deserves a transportation system as dynamic and forward-thinking as the people who live here.

Decades ago, highways transformed how Americans moved and where they lived. Today, we have a chance to write the next chapter—one where trains and transit bring new life to communities from Chicago to the farthest reaches of downstate Illinois.

Let’s not miss it.