Changes Ahead for Chicago Transit Authority with New Governance

Next month, a new chapter will begin for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) as seven members of its new governing board take their places in the West Loop boardroom. One of the initial responsibilities for these members will be to elect a chair. Lester Barclay, the current chair of the CTA board, has not ruled out continuing in this role. Appointed by former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Barclay expressed his willingness to serve again if chosen, emphasizing his respect for the board’s decision-making process.

The formation of this new board is part of a larger set of governance reforms driven by state transit funding legislation. These changes consolidate leadership and secure over $1 billion annually for public transit. As of September 1, all current transit board members’ terms will expire, making room for appointees, though some members will stay.

Barclay is a contentious figure in the Chicago transportation community. Although reappointed by current Mayor Brandon Johnson, he has faced criticism regarding his transit reform stance and leadership under former CTA President Dorval Carter Jr. Despite controversy, Barclay secured his positions on both the CTA and Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) boards, though his confirmation vote was divided.

“The mandate of the transit reform legislation is to start new, turn a page, and build the type of transit system that riders want and deserve,” said Kyle Lucas from Better Streets Chicago, an advocacy group.

Other voices in the Chicago political scene echo this call for fresh leadership. Alderman Matt Martin pointed out the need for a leader with expertise in transportation who can unite activists and experts toward a common goal.

Although the CTA board’s future power will decrease due to enhanced oversight by NITA, it retains influence over operations and the appointment of a president, a position vacant for over a year. Board members will earn between $15,000 and $25,000 annually, depending on their board roles.

Alongside Barclay, incoming board members include Michael Eaddy, Neema Jha, Nedra Sims Fears, and Ann Kalayil. They will be joined by Oswaldo Alvarez and Tom Kotarac, the latter playing a significant role in the NITA transition.

The majority of the CTA board will select its next chair. This selection requires Illinois Senate approval and will occur after NITA’s leadership choice. State Senator Ram Villivalam emphasized the need for accountable leadership to ensure quality transit services.

During August, Barclay invited the Tribune to ride the Green Line, showcasing his support for development near public transit. Despite past skepticism about subsidies for regional coordination, he remains optimistic about its benefits for the city.

Activists criticize Barclay for infrequent CTA use; he explained that he is often recognized at stations, allowing him to bypass regular fare procedures. He claims personal use of transit around once weekly. Barclay also cited his background as outside counsel for the CTA, arguing for his qualifications in transit management.

Barclay played a crucial role under two CTA presidents, maintaining that the CTA board held leadership accountable. He noted the popularity of current acting CTA President Nora Leerhsen among advocates. In a shift from past practices, filling the president’s role now requires NITA board involvement, along with its chair and executive director in the search process.

“I’ve heard potential names from both inside and outside the state,” Barclay remarked on future CTA leadership.

As the CTA embarks on this new phase, the leadership chosen in the coming weeks will have a significant impact on the city’s transit landscape.