Dean Wayne Joins Economic Club Dialogue on the Future of Public Transit

Posted on March 09, 2026

At a recent Economic Club of Chicago Member Exchange, Dean Sandy Wayne joined regional leaders to discuss governance, funding, and implementation of new transit legislation.

A group of twelve professionals, including Dean Sandy Wayne and Metra CEO Jim Derwinski, posing in a formal wood-paneled room at the Economic Club of Chicago
Dean Sandy Wayne (third from right) joins Metra CEO Jim Derwinski (fifth from right) and other Chicago civic leaders at the ECC Member Exchange on February 18.

Dean Sandy Wayne recently attended a Member Exchange hosted by Howard Learner through the Economic Club of Chicago (ECC). Established in 1927, the ECC is a premier, nonpartisan forum for more than 2,400 C-suite executives and civic leaders across the region. Member Exchanges are small, member-driven gatherings designed to foster dialogue on timely issues.

The discussion focused on the future of Chicago’s public transit system following new CTA/RTA legislation and the formation of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA). NITA will replace the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) in Northeastern Illinois, effective June 1, 2026, and will oversee the CTA, Metra, and Pace. Its goal will be to unify fares, integrate services, and solve funding gaps.

Leaders explored what successful implementation requires: clarifying governance responsibilities, ensuring sustainable funding, improving reliability and safety, and restoring rider confidence. A follow-up session is planned in the coming months as stakeholders continue advancing solutions for a more efficient, accessible, and modern transit system.

Advancing Transit Reform in Northern Illinois

This session focused on the future of Chicago’s public transit system following recent CTA and RTA legislation and the formation of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA).

Participants explored what successful implementation will require in the months ahead, including:

  • Clarifying governance roles and responsibilities
  • Establishing sustainable funding mechanisms
  • Improving system reliability and safety
  • Restoring rider confidence

The group emphasized that legislative change is only the first step. Effective execution, regional collaboration, and public trust will determine whether reform efforts deliver meaningful improvements for commuters and communities.

Continuing the Conversation

Leaders plan to reconvene within the next 3 to 6 months to assess progress and continue advancing solutions to build a more efficient, accessible, and modern transit system.

Dean Wayne’s participation reflects the college’s commitment to regional policy discussions that shape economic vitality, infrastructure, and the broader business environment.