IPTA assists its members in providing the best public transportation service possible. We represent the legislative interests of public transportation operators throughout the state, and promote a positive image of public transportation in Illinois. We promote research and investigation toward the improvement of public transportation and facilitate professionalism in public transportation through training and providing technical assistance opportunities for operators and their employees.

The 70 members of IPTA range in size from one of the largest of U.S. urban systems, the Chicago Transit Authority, to smaller, one or two vehicle operations in rural Illinois. Those 70 members include transit operations in 16 major downstate metropolitan areas and 32 rural/county operations. We are committed to providing quality, accessible transportation to all areas of the state and work closely with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Illinois Rural Transit Assistance Center (RTAC) to ensure that our members have maximum access to funding, technical resources, and up-to-the-minute research and industry data.

Two statewide conferences are held each year to facilitate active involvement in the organization. The association recognizes an Employee of the Year and Legislator of the Year with awards at the fall conference. Recently, IPTA, IDOT and RTAC sponsored the first annual statewide transportation roadeo in Springfield. IPTA supports its members in the individual attainment of professionalism through programs such as Leadership APTA (American Public Transportation Association) and the Certified Community Transit Manager designation through the Community Transportation Association of America.