CTA Drops Unarmed Security Guards. Plus, Chi’s Booming Film Industry

CTA Drops Unarmed Security Guards. Plus, Chi’s Booming Film Industry

From City Cast Chicago by City Cast

April 23, 2026 · 39 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the CTA's decision to drop unarmed security guards and highlights Chicago's growing film industry.

CTA ended its multi-million dollar contract with Monterrey Security on Friday, letting go of roughly 250 unarmed security guards. The transit agency plans on redirecting funds to officers and other security personnel. Host Jacoby Cochran discusses the latest with executive producer Simone Alicea and writer, comedian, and the host of The Rewine podcast, PJ Walker. Plus, Chicago’s booming film industry is driving record production spending. And did you know Chicago was once the silent film capital of the world? Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, April 23 episode: Enjoy Illinois ComEd Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

People in this episode

Host: Jacoby Cochran

Guests: Simone Alicea, PJ Walker

Topics covered

  • CTA security changes
  • Chicago film industry
  • production spending
  • historical film significance
  • public safety

Keywords

  • CTA
  • security guards
  • Chicago film industry
  • production spending
  • silent film capital

Sponsors

Enjoy Illinois, ComEd

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: CTA, Monterrey Security

Places: Chicago, Illinois

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