U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin is asking federal transportation officials to provide special oversight of Metra as it deals with "serious management and financial challenges."
In a letter to the Federal Railroad Administration Tuesday, the Illinois Democrat says he wants to ensure the commuter rail system operates safely and efficiently.
Durbin says he's concerned a lack of permanent leadership at Metra "creates a situation where accountability is hard to find and priorities like safety could become neglected." He says Metra will receive more than $135 million in federal funds this year.
Four Metra board members have resigned in recent weeks amid criticism of a $718,000 buyout of ousted Metra CEO Alex Clifford and allegations of political patronage. Durbin notes the board doesn't have enough members to name a permanent executive director.
Durbin Asks For Federal Oversight of Metra Safety
Copyright AP - Associated Press