CHICAGO — Pace released its 2016 draft budget, which proposes service expansion and a fare increase, but also warns of a paratransit shortfall that might impinge on Metra and the Chicago Transit Authority, the Daily Herald reported.

One issue for disabled riders who use Pace's paratransit pickup service is an $8.5 million budget hole courtesy of the state budget crisis. Gov. Bruce Rauner has proposed eliminating an $8.5 million grant but its fate is unclear as gridlock between lawmakers and the executive branch drags on.

A paratransit fare increase may be proposed to fill the gap; however, Pace Executive Director T.J. Ross acknowledged it would be very difficult for those riders to absorb. For the full story, click here.