Unless the state legislature reaches a deal soon, the Chicago Transit Authority and Pace will increase fares and cut bus routes on Sunday.

Among the 39 CTA bus routes to be cut include #93 California/Dodge, #200 Main Shuttle and #205 Chicago/Golf. Full bus and El fares will increase to $2.50 from $2, for those paying cash.

El fares during peak hours, which are 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. on weekdays, will cost an extra 50 cents.

Some Pace fares will also increase, although no routes in Evanston will be cut.

Not all changes affect the riders though. The “doomsday” plan calls for 600 CTA workers to lose their jobs.

The CTA argues a lack of funding makes the cuts necessary.

“Transit needs additional funding in order to accommodate population growth, job growth, the end of federal operating support, and the rising costs of fuel and security,” according to a CTA statement.

The CTA projects a $158 million deficit for 2008. Its leaders blame the Illinois legislature and Gov. Rod Blagojevich for not providing additional funds.

Along with an aging transit system in need of repairs, the CTA also suffers from the costs of a changing population. The cost of the paratransit service for riders with disabilities, and of pensions for retiring workers, has increased.

Another set of route cuts and price hikes is slated for Jan. 6, 2008. These would eliminate 43 more bus routes, including all remaining Evanston routes: #97 Skokie, #201 Central/Ridge and #206 Evanston Circulator. About 1,800 employees would also be laid off.

Rush-hour El fares would increase to $2.50 for Chicago Card users and $3.25 for Transit Card and cash users. Bus fares would increase to $2.25 with a Chicago or Transit Card and to $2.75 with cash.