State lawmakers have until Saturday to fill a budget gap facing the CTA, Metra and Pace. A new plan would see the transportation authority renamed, create a universal fare system and fill the gap to avoid layoffs and service cuts.

New proposals in Springfield would give a revamped transit agency more control over CTA, Metra and Pace while raising funds through new taxes and surcharges.

The bill would replace the Regional Transportation Authority, which oversees CTA, Metra, and Pace, with a new entity called the Northern Illinois Transit Authority. It would be charged with creating a universal fare system and ensuring coordination of service and capital projects.

A new plan to reform public transit that emerged Wednesday in the General Assembly would establish the Northern Illinois Transportation Authority in place of the Regional Transportation Authority and

A new bill would rename the RTA and give it expanded control over CTA, Metra and Pace — including new power over fares, budgets and the CTA board.

Cape Cod Transit Authority awarded state and federal grant for 15 new accessible vans for older and disabled persons. Each has room for two wheelchairs