A $730 million ‘fiscal cliff’ threatens to derail regional transit, and the public can help find solutions

The region’s public transit system faces a $730 million budget gap in 2026. What can officials and the public do? (Ashlee Rezin/Sun-Times file)

The region’s public transit system is beset by assorted problems these days, including crime, dependability issues and a general lack of cleanliness.

Now, add one more thing to that list: a staggering $730 million-a-year budget gap that could start hitting the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra and Pace beginning in 2026, according to the Regional Transportation Authority.