Chicago RTA to Send Ventra Cards to Paratransit Customers
In June, the RTA mailed more than 550,000 reduced fare, ride free and ADA paratransit customers mailers about the transition to Ventra.
Chicago’s Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) will begin sending new Ventra permits to reduced fare, ride free and ADA paratransit customers next month.
The selected customers will automatically receive a new Ventra permit for use on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra and Pace. All customers should receive their new permits by the end of November.
The new Ventra permit has no fees for transit use, though a $5 monthly transit account dormancy fee will apply to reduced fare and ADA paratransit customers who do not use their Ventra Transit Account for 18 consecutive months. CTA and Pace fares will remain the same and cash will still be accepted on CTA and Pace buses.
In June, the RTA mailed more than 550,000 reduced fare, ride free and ADA paratransit customers mailers about the transition to Ventra.
More Paratransit

METRO Magazine Announces 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards Winners
Projects Recognized for Advancing Mobility Through Technology, Accessibility, Workforce Innovation, and Operational Excellence
Read More →
Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: Masabi Teams with St. Louis Metro and More
In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at recent news from Transdev, Hitachi, and more partnerships making headlines across the transportation sector.
Read More →
New York MTA Leverages Zoning Program to Advance Station Accessibility
Accessibility enhancements at Nevins St Station will be financed through a development agreement tied to the MTA's Zoning for Accessibility initiative.
Read More →
Reinventing Fleet Maintenance with Real-time Visibility and AI
Transit leaders need to know what needs fixing, where to look, who is responsible, when work is completed, and what it costs without having to chase information across disconnected systems.
Read More →
SamTrans Sets Priorities for Potential Connect Bay Area Revenue
The board-approved framework allocates future funding to maintaining service, rider improvements, equity initiatives, and infrastructure repairs.
Read More →
Chicago's NITA Act Moves Into Next Phase as Service Improvements Begin
Rider-focused improvements will begin rolling out across the system immediately as CTA, Metra, and Pace increase service this summer in the six-county region.
Read More →2026 METRO Buyer’s Guide & Directory
Searching for the right vehicles, technology, equipment, or services for your public transit or motorcoach operation? This industry guide brings together manufacturers and suppliers from across the transportation market — all in one place. Download it to connect with the companies that help agencies and operators improve mobility, enhance operations, and move their organizations forward.
Read More →
Rays the Mark Foundation to Honor CDTA’s Emily DeVito at October Fundraiser
Event at Chicago-area Ravisloe Country Club will support DeVito, a transit employee and mother of twins battling kidney failure and awaiting a transplant.
Read More →
King County Test Heliox Chargers, Keolis Lands California Contract Top Biz Briefs
Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.
Read More →