CTA officials told the board on Oct. 8 that the agency received letters reporting a temporary pause in federal disbursements for aspects of the Red Line Extension (RLE) and the Red‑Purple Modernization (RPM) projects while contract compliance reviews proceed.

Acting President (presenter) said the agency received two letters — one concerning the Red Line Extension and one concerning RPM — indicating a temporary pause in disbursements while contracts are reviewed for compliance. The acting president said CTA is responding to follow-up requests for information and will meet the specified response timeline; staff reported a 14‑day timeframe to provide the requested materials and that CTA is working closely with contractors, industry and local peers to assess the impacts of the regulatory change.

Staff emphasized that, to date, project activities have not been impacted: pre‑groundbreaking work continues, public meetings are ongoing, and project offices remain open. The acting president asked for continued regular communication with community stakeholders, noting the Red Line Extension is a long‑standing commitment to the Far South Side and that communities deserve transparency about next steps.

Board reaction and next steps: Board members thanked staff and urged ongoing transparency. Directors asked when the agency expects a federal response; staff said CTA has a specified response window and will submit the requested information within 14 days and will provide updates as they become available. The acting president said CTA will remain in close contact with federal and local stakeholders and will report developments to the board.

Context: Staff called the situation “exceptional” and said the agency is taking an active response posture; they noted other agencies are affected by the regulatory change. Board members commended staff for rapid outreach to community stakeholders and urged continued partnership-building and transparent communications.