(The following appeared on the Chicago Tribune website on May 13, 2011.)
CHICAGO — Fearing Metra will face a $19 million diesel fuel cost overrun by the end of the year if oil prices remain at record high levels, officials of the commuter rail agency acknowledged Friday they are looking at options, including a fare increase or service cuts.
But a decline in oil prices since May 3 prompted Metra CEO Alex Clifford to hold off for at least 30 days on calling a special meeting of Metra’s board to weigh actions.
Soaring diesel costs put Metra $1.6 million over its fuel budget for March, officials said.
Full story: Chicago Tribune