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The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will need to eliminate jobs, raise fares, cut service and transfer capital funds to the operating budget if the agency doesn’t receive at least $97.5 million in additional public funds to balance its 2007 budget. CTA previously proposed a 2007 budget that anticipated an additional $110 million in public funding, but its governing body the Regional Transportation Authority recently requested a contingency plan in case the funds are not available.

Under the contingency plan, the authority would freeze wages for non-union employees, eliminate 27 positions, and implement graduated furlough days for non-union employees earning at least $50,000 annually. CTA also would suspend Purple Express rush hour and Yellow Line service.

In addition, rail cash fares would increase from $2 to $2.50 in off-peak hours, and to $3.25 during peak periods. CTA would double transfers from 25 cents to 50 cents, and hike unlimited ride pass prices an average of 63 percent.

Finally, the authority proposed transferring $56.9 million in capital funds earmarked to renovate rail cars and buses to the operating budget.

The contingency plan will be considered by CTA's board.