Paratransit users expand lawsuit against Pace

Pace paratransit users in Chicago displeased with cost increases and service problems are expanding the scope of a lawsuit filed in federal court.

The legal action claims that increased paratransit fares from $75 to $150 a month, which became effective in February, contravene the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The lawsuit also blames state mandates requiring a fixed amount of revenue to be generated from paratransit, saying it discriminates against riders with disabilities.

Attorney Chris Kruger said the extra costs are particularly harsh in light of new policies enacted by the General Assembly allowing seniors to ride free on public transit in the region.

"Seniors should all have an affordable way to get around," he said.

The lawsuit seeks to reduce the monthly paratransit cost back to $75 and to provide free paratransit for seniors.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich, the Regional Transportation Authority, and the Chicago Transit Authority were recently added to the lawsuit.