Equipment Information

Regional Transportation Authority 7716 is a bi-level coach designed for commuter service out of Chicago. It is known as a “gallery car” because the upper level is divided, with a gap (or “gallery”) down the middle of the car to enable the conductor to collect fares from both levels while standing on the main or lower level. This car is from the third order for bi-level cars placed by the Chicago & North Western.

Regional Transportation Authority 7716 Details

Builder: Pullman-Standard
Year Built: 1960
Seats: 161
Length: 85ft
Width: 10ft 6in
Height: 15ft 10in
Weight: 128000 lbs
Description: Bi-level Commuter Coach / ex C&NW 65
Arrived: 2024
Condition: Complete / restored / operational

RTA 7716 Ownership History

1960-1974 – Chicago & North Western #65
1974-1983 – Regional Transportation Authority #7716
1983-c2005 – Metra #7716
c2005-2024 – Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Nelsonville, OH
2024-present – Illinois Railway Museum, Union, IL

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What is the Regional Transportation Authority?

The Regional Transportation Authority, or RTA, is a publicly funded oversight body which serves to fund and coordinate public transportation in northeastern Illinois. Following a 1974 referendum, the state of Illinois created the RTA to utilize grants, government funding and limited taxing authority in a six-county area around Chicago to maintain and improve public transportation. The RTA worked with existing railroad operators, bus companies and the Chicago Transit Authority. In 1983, the RTA was reorganized by state legislation and ceased to have direct control over transit and transportation services. The RTA transferred management of commuter rail operations to the newly created Metra, which still operates commuter service out of Chicago.