Kirk, Durbin want details on proposed Metra fare hike

Both of Illinois U.S. senators are calling on Metra to explain why it’s considering a 30 percent fare hike.

The Chicago Tribune reported that Sen. Mark Kirk and Sen. Dick Durbin wrote a letter to agency CEO Alex Clifford asking for details.

In the letter, the senators say they understand the financial challenges faced by transit agencies nationwide, but Metra riders deserve an explanation.

The newspaper says Metra’s staff has proposed an increase on several types of tickets to offset a projected $64.7 million shortfall next year.

Metra spokeswoman Judy Pardonnet says Clifford is preparing a full response for the senators.