Springfield, Illinois – Senator Martin Sandoval (D-12) continues to look for ways to prevent bus and train service cuts and reductions in Chicago, announced by the CTA in order to close a $300 million budget gap. So far approximately 2000 layoff notices have been sent to drivers and other union employees with a warning that those positions could be axed in the next two months. Senator Sandoval, Chairman of the Illinois Senate Transportation Committee, convened a meeting with Chicago transportation leaders, among them Rep. Julie Hamos (D-18), Mass Transit Committee Chairperson; CTA President Richard Rodriguez and the new CTA Chairman Terry Peterson, looking for alternative solutions.

“A $300 million shortfall is unconscionable. The nation is in crisis but raising fares is an unjust move to students and working families. During the present veto session in Springfield I will make this topic one of my top priorities,” said Senator Sandoval who represents the 12^th Legislative District that covers the Southwest Side of Chicago, including the cities of Cicero, Berwyn and Stickney.

CTA President Rodriguez blamed the battered economy, which has cut into sales taxes and real-estate transfer taxes.

“This economy is taking its toll on everyone,” Rodriguez said.  If that doomsday scenario becomes a reality it would affect more than one million riders a day.