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Metro ridership about two‑thirds of pre‑pandemic levels; public hearings set as Metro prepares two budget scenarios
Summary
Staff reported recent Metro ridership at about 65% of pre‑pandemic levels and said Metro will prepare two FY2026 budgets — one assuming state funding and one that assumes none. Public hearings were scheduled in Crystal Lake and Chicago for November.
CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill. — McHenry County staff reported Sept. 15 that Metro ridership is running at approximately 65% of pre‑pandemic levels and outlined the FY2026 budget calendar, including two budget scenarios and upcoming public hearings.
A transit staff member reported recent modal figures: “Our most recent numbers were at 65% of pre pandemic levels. The Milwaukee North is at 59%, Milwaukee West at 48%, North Central service at 45%… Northwest at 63%, and the UP North at 75%,” the staff member said while summarizing July ridership figures.
Staff said Metro will prepare two draft budgets for the coming fiscal year: one that assumes some state funding and a “doomsday” scenario that assumes no state funding, with potential service reductions reflected in the latter. Staff also announced in‑person and virtual public hearings: McHenry County’s in‑person hearing is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 6, 4–6 p.m., at Crystal Lake City Hall; a Chicago‑area hearing will be live‑streamed on Wednesday, Nov. 5, with an option to submit virtual comments.
Staff emphasized that the two‑budget approach will allow the agency and stakeholders to evaluate service-level impacts depending on the state funding outcome. The public hearings are intended to gather rider and public input on the budget and service proposals.
Ending: Staff encouraged community members to attend the Nov. 5 virtual or Nov. 6 in‑person hearings to provide comments on Metro’s FY2026 proposals.
