CHICAGO — City transit officials have launched a new Regional Day Pass that lets commuters travel seamlessly across CTA, Metra, and Pace systems for a full day — a move aimed at making public transportation more accessible and efficient.
The announcement, made this week by the Regional Transportation Authority and participating agencies, marks a key step in regional transit unification. However, the launch coincided with a service suspension on Metra’s Union Pacific North (UP-N) Line, affecting riders traveling through Evanston and the North Shore.
One Pass, Three Systems, 24-Hour Access
The Regional Day Pass is now available on the Ventra app and offers unlimited rides for 24 hours across all three networks. The price varies depending on how many Metra zones a rider crosses, and reduced fare options are available for qualifying passengers.
“This fare product will allow riders to seamlessly travel across all three transit systems, as much as they want within 24 hours,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen.
The initiative is part of Chicago’s broader goal to streamline commuter access and improve public transit integration between suburban and urban areas.
Launch Marred by Temporary Metra Disruptions
Despite the excitement around the new pass, some commuters faced unexpected delays when Metra UP-N services were temporarily suspended on the same day as the pass launch.
According to CBS News Chicago, emergency track repairs near Evanston Main Street forced a halt in outbound UP-N service until 10:00 a.m., while several inbound trains were also affected. Delays ranged between 35 to 45 minutes, and many passengers had to adjust their morning travel plans.
Later that morning, Train No. 302, which had stalled near Winnetka, resumed operation, offering some relief to frustrated commuters.
Improving Daily Commutes Despite Challenges
The Regional Transportation Authority, which collaborated on the pass with CTA, Metra, and Pace, hopes the new product will encourage more ridership and simplify inter-system transfers across Chicago and surrounding suburbs.
Commuters can purchase the pass via the Ventra app or use a physical Ventra card at participating stations.
While the Metra service disruption served as a reminder of the system’s vulnerability to infrastructure issues, officials remain optimistic that the new pass will enhance the overall commuter experience across the city.
Have you tried the new Regional Day Pass?
How do you think this pass will change your daily commute across CTA, Metra, or Pace? Share your experience or concerns with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
