Proposed Pace fare hikes, service cuts lead to standoff

A messy and emotional confrontation between Pace officials and disabled riders this afternoon subsided into prayers that the suburban bus agency would not raise rates.

Pace is considering increasing paratransit fares in the suburbs to $3.50 and in Chicago to $4.50. Current rates range from $2.25 in the suburbs to $3 in Chicago.

Paratransit, the ride service for disabled individuals, is low on funds and a shortfall is anticipated in 2010. Low revenues are necessitating tough decisions, officials have explained.

But riders say the hike would be hard on the paratransit users, adding that many people can't afford to pay more.

"Lord, we are here to ask you to open a door and make a way for the finances to come from somewhere else," paratransit user Debbie Pittman said as she prayed inside the Pace headquarters in Arlington Heights.

Getting inside to the warmth of the lobby proved a challenge for numerous disabled riders who gathered outside the building to rally against the fare hikes.

When several people in wheelchairs entered the office they were greeted by Pace attorney Thomas Ciecko who told them and others trying to get inside to leave.

"The fire code prevents this room for being used for anything other than ingress and egress," Ciecko said. "If you don't leave, I'll have to ask police to escort you out of the building."

Des Plaines resident and paratransit user Sharon Lamp countered that "it's a public building. We have a right to be here."

Arlington Heights police brokered a compromise allowing the entire group into the lobby with the caveat they not protest inside and disrupt the receptionist.

The Pace board is expected to decide whether to include fare increases and significant cuts to suburban bus routes in its draft budget later today.

The meeting is expected to be lengthy with feelings running high over the proposed changes.

"You should be able to protest," Magnolia Fleming of Chicago said. "All we're trying to do is be heard."