In a significant legal move, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Transit Administration. The lawsuit, initiated on Friday, aims to reinstate funding previously promised for the crucial Red Line Extension and Red & Purple Modernization projects.
The Federal Transit Administration had earlier pledged to support these projects with substantial financial backing, including nearly $2 billion earmarked for the Red Line Extension. However, in a surprising turn of events, the federal government halted all funding for both initiatives in October 2025, as reported by the CTA.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
Expressing firm resolve, CTA’s acting President Nora Leerhsen stated, “We are fully committed to the success of these projects and will take every step necessary to ensure they move forward.” She highlighted the Red Line Extension as a historic investment poised to revitalize the Far South Side of Chicago, enhancing public transit and spurring economic growth within the communities it serves. Leerhsen also emphasized the progress being made on the Red and Purple Modernization Project, which has already delivered four new, modern, and fully accessible stations.
The CTA underscored the importance of both projects, noting that the Red & Purple Modernization (RPM) is nearing completion, while groundwork for the Red Line Extension (RLE) has been ongoing for four years. Without the restoration of federal funds, the CTA warns that both projects might come to a standstill.
The Red Line Extension is set to expand the CTA service by 5.3 miles, stretching from 95th Street to 130th Street, promising to significantly enhance connectivity and accessibility for residents in the area.
RLE will extend CTA service 5.3 miles south from 95th Street to 130th Street.
As part of RPM, the CTA has opened four new stations and reconstructed the Red and Purple Line Express track.
Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.
