Travel Just Got Cheaper for Students at the University of Illinois Chicago
Students at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) can now travel more affordably with the introduction of the CTA-Metra U-Pass pilot program.
A New Pilot Program
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Metra have launched a pilot program that offers unlimited Metra suburban train service to students at UIC. This program is a result of a partnership between the CTA and Metra to provide students with a convenient and affordable way to travel to and from campus.
The CTA-Metra U-Pass
The CTA-Metra U-Pass is a discounted transit pass that combines unlimited Metra train service with the CTA’s U-Pass. The pass is available to students at UIC and other participating universities. The pass costs $349 per semester, which is significantly more than the CTA-only U-Pass that costs $163 per semester. However, the CTA-Metra U-Pass still offers a discount compared to purchasing a single Metra monthly pass, which ranges from $75 to $135.
How It Works
Students must use a U-Pass Ventra card for the CTA and a mobile pass in the Ventra app for Metra trips. The Ventra app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices.
Pilot Program Details
The pilot program is currently available to UIC students and will be tested through next year’s summer semester. If successful, the program may be expanded to other universities. The CTA-only U-Pass has been in operation since 1998 and is used by over 90,000 college students at more than 65 schools.
Benefits for Students
The CTA-Metra U-Pass offers several benefits for students, including:
- Unlimited Metra train service
- A discounted transit pass compared to purchasing a single Metra monthly pass
- A convenient way to travel to and from campus
- A flexible way to travel, with the option to use the CTA or Metra, depending on the student’s needs
Conclusion
The CTA-Metra U-Pass pilot program is a convenient and affordable way for students at UIC to travel to and from campus. With unlimited Metra train service and a discounted transit pass, this program is a great option for students who rely on public transportation to get to and from campus.
FAQs
Q: What is the CTA-Metra U-Pass?
A: The CTA-Metra U-Pass is a discounted transit pass that combines unlimited Metra train service with the CTA’s U-Pass.
Q: How much does the CTA-Metra U-Pass cost?
A: The CTA-Metra U-Pass costs $349 per semester.
Q: Is the CTA-Metra U-Pass available to all UIC students?
A: The CTA-Metra U-Pass is currently available to UIC students, but the pilot program may be expanded to other universities in the future.
Q: How do I get a CTA-Metra U-Pass?
A: Students can purchase a CTA-Metra U-Pass through the UIC student portal or by visiting the UIC Student Center.
Q: What are the benefits of the CTA-Metra U-Pass?
A: The CTA-Metra U-Pass offers several benefits, including unlimited Metra train service, a discounted transit pass compared to purchasing a single Metra monthly pass, and a convenient way to travel to and from campus.
