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This week, Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is launching an outreach program to advocate more regional public transit funding and encourage Illinois lawmakers to change the way regional public transit is funded.

The authority is placing advertisements on trains and buses to make passengers aware of the need for additional funding, and hanging banners along area expressways to encourage drivers to support more transit funding to avoid increased traffic congestion that could result from reduced service.

CTA also launched a Web site, www.keepchicagolandmoving.com, that provides information on regional public transit funding, and encourages visitors to contact state legislators to solicit additional funding in fiscal year 2005.

Established by the state in 1983, the current funding formula determines funds based on geographic boundaries and retail spending rather than ridership, service and performance, according to CTA.

Earlier this month, authority officials presented two budget recommendations for FY2005 — one that anticipates additional state funding and another that doesn’t. CTA will be forced to cut service if the authority doesn’t obtain additional state funds, officials said.