Chicago Transit Authority

The meeting focused on updates regarding the redesign and construction timeline for the State Lake and Damon Greenline Stations, presented by Michael Lev on behalf of CDOT. Key design features include a full coverage canopy, increased circulation space, larger platforms, and the addition of a crossover bridge with step-free elevator access between platforms. An upgrade to the northern mezzanine of the Lake Red Line subway station to include step-free elevator access was also detailed. Discussions addressed public information dissemination plans for the new station layout, including post-completion walkthroughs with the committee and utilizing organizational mailing lists for updates during the construction phases, which are anticipated to last approximately three years starting in late 2022 or early 2023. A public comment highlighted ongoing issues with service dog handlers being denied boarding due to non-compliance with ADA regulations regarding service animal identification and containment, prompting an acknowledgment regarding the need for enhanced employee training. Questions were raised regarding changes to pick-up and drop-off configurations during construction and post-construction.

The meeting of the Committee on Strategic Planning and Service Delivery covered several agenda items. Key discussions included the review and approval of an ordinance authorizing a five-year agreement with the University of Chicago for the operation of Bus Routes 171, 172, and 192, projecting CTA revenue of $16 million over the contract term. A significant focus was placed on amending the Fiscal Years 2023 through 2027 Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which involved incorporating a $200 million FTA award for rail vehicle replacement, $25 million for bus terminal electrification, and several congressionally directed awards for station accessibility improvements and facility modernization, resulting in a net funding increase of $245.8 million to the CIP. Furthermore, the committee reviewed an ordinance authorizing a license agreement with the City of Chicago's Department of Public Health to install a public health vending machine at the 95th Street Dan Ryan station as part of a pilot program distributing free supplies, including naloxone. Finally, an amendment to a retail concession lease with Greyhound Lines for property at 15 West 95th Street was authorized, increasing the monthly rent and requiring a security deposit. The committee also authorized a sublease agreement for a portion of the 120 North Racine property to a not-for-profit corporation.

The meeting commenced with the introduction of new Vice Chair Lincoln Edwards, succeeding Sydney. Key discussions centered on the All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) update. Public comment included detailed input regarding elevator usability, accessibility standards (ASME A7.1 codes), and the need to consider needs beyond the minimum code requirements for individuals with various disabilities. The Chief Infrastructure Officer provided an overview of the revised ASAP, which aims for full system accessibility within 20 years, detailing the four phases of station improvements. The presentation highlighted the evolution of the plan since 2012, incorporating lessons learned regarding historical preservation and federal funding opportunities, like the FTA's ASAP grant program. The plan budget increased significantly to $4.9 billion from the initial $2.1 billion estimate in 2018. Phase One is 100% funded for completion between 2023 and 2027, partially funding Phase Two, which aims to bring system accessibility up to 81% upon completion of Phase One and partial Phase Two stations. The presentation listed specific stations designated for each phase.

The meeting commenced with a moment of silence in memory of Judy Human, described as the mother of the ADA, acknowledging her significant legacy in disability rights advocacy. Following roll call and introductions of new committee members, the group moved to announcements, where information regarding upcoming ADA-focused sessions from the Great Lakes ADA Center concerning healthcare access and accessible temporary events was shared. The minutes from the January 9, 2023 meeting were approved without changes. Public comments were read aloud, focusing on concerns regarding CTA bus operator training on assisting visually impaired riders and proper management of priority seating and space for passengers using walkers. The committee confirmed that responses to the current public comments would be addressed in the following meeting, with the January comment response addressed in the current session. A key presentation covered the All Station Successful Program (ASAP) update, detailing that Phase One is fully funded and Phase Two is underway. Specific station projects noted for funding and progress include Racine, Austin Greenline, California Milwaukee Blue Line, Montrose Blue Line, and the State and Lake project. Updates on new funding for Irving Park, Belmont, Pulaski stations, and design funds for Lake on the Park and Ridgeland stations were also provided.

The transcript covers proceedings for both the Committee on Finance, Audit and Budget and the Regular Transit Board Meeting, both held on the same date. The initial part detailed the procedural note regarding virtual meetings due to the COVID-19 disaster proclamation. The Committee meeting included the approval of June 2022 minutes and a detailed finance report for May, showing positive variances in revenues (especially in advertising and system-generated revenues like sales tax) and expenses (notably labor and other expenses), resulting in significant favorable aggregate variances compared to budget and prior year figures. The committee also reviewed and recommended several contract actions, including an amendment to a purchase and sale agreement for property at 120 North Racine Avenue, and an ordinance authorizing a ground lease for property at 2525 North Kedzie Boulevard for an affordable housing and retail complex. Numerous change orders for various contracts (equipment maintenance, escalator repair, fire alarm system, concrete work, steel work, software services, and telecommunications services) were reviewed and slated for omnibus approval. The Regular Board Meeting commenced with public comment, where the Alderman of Chicago's 35th Ward spoke strongly in favor of the affordable housing development component related to the 2525 North Kedzie property.