Show appreciation to the region’s transit workers on March 18 by using #TransitEmployeeAppreciationDay
CHICAGO, IL - Today, Chicago’s three regional transit operators — the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra, and Pace Suburban Bus — invite riders and the public to join them in celebrating Transit Employee Appreciation Day. The simplest and most meaningful ways to take part are by saying “thank you” in person to the bus and rail operators and other essential transit workers who keep the region moving safely and reliably every day or on social media using #TransitEmployeeAppreciationDay.
CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen praised CTA employees and encouraged riders to take a moment to recognize their contributions — either in person, by sharing their appreciation on social media or going to the CTA’s Chatbot ‘Thank an employee’ option on the agency’s website at transitchicago.com.
“CTA employees perform noble, honorable, and dynamic work that allows millions of people to pursue their dreams, connect with loved ones, and create lifelong memories together, every day,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “From our frontline employees to those who work diligently to keep our system in good repair, their commitment and professionalism is second-to-none. Today, take a moment to let a transit employee know how much you appreciate them—they are a big part of what makes the Chicago region great.”
“Metra could not deliver fast, reliable, and safe service without its hardworking and dedicated employees – they are the foundation for everything we do,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski. “They certainly have my thanks and appreciation, and I would encourage all our customers to take a moment to extend their thanks and appreciation to our workers, too.”
“Every day, transit employees across our system work together to keep our region moving. From the operators behind the wheel to the teams who maintain vehicles, manage operations, and support riders. Their dedication ensures people can reach work, healthcare, and essential services. Today, and every day, I am grateful for their service, and I encourage everyone to take a moment to thank a transit employee,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger.
In honor of Transit Employee Appreciation Day, transit riders are encouraged to share their gratitude by:
- Offering a friendly wave or greeting.
- Recognizing employees by submitting a commendation online or by calling the respective transit agency:
- Posting a “shout-out” on social media using the hashtag #TransitEmployeeAppreciationDay.
Chicago’s transit agencies remain committed to delivering safe, reliable, and accessible service across the region. As CTA, Metra, and Pace continue working to strengthen and modernize the public transit system, Transit Employee Appreciation Day offers a moment to recognize the dedicated workforce whose efforts keep the region connected each day.
For more information about Transit Employee Appreciation Day 2026, visit the social media channels for:
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Pace: Maggie Daly Skogsbakken | (847) 217-3156 | [email protected]
Metra: Michael Gillis | (312) 498-6758 | [email protected]
CTA: Charles Plouffe | (312) 995-0754 | [email protected]
Pace Suburban Bus safely and efficiently moves people to work, school, and other regional destinations with its family of public transportation services. Pace offers affordable and environmentally responsible transit options for the residents of 274 municipalities in Cook, Will, DuPage, Kane, Lake, and McHenry counties. The backbone of Chicago's suburbs, Pace serves tens of thousands of daily riders. One of the largest bus services in North America, Pace covers 3,677 square miles, an area about 15 times the size of the City of Chicago. Pace's innovative approach to public transportation gives the agency a national reputation as an industry leader.
About Metra: Metra is an essential resource that safely and reliably connects individuals to the things that matter most in their lives — their work, their homes and their families.
About CTA: CTA delivers quality, affordable transit services that link people, jobs and communities. With over 11,500 employees, CTA provides over 1 million rides each weekday with more than 1,900 buses and 1,500 rail cars transporting customers across a service area with 146 rail stations and more than 10,600 bus stops.