St. Joseph and Porter counties opened polls for a special election.

Voters are deciding whether to create a new Regional Transportation Authority in northwest Indiana.

If voters approve, the group will oversee expansion of the South Shore Line, among other projects in Michiana, but not everyone is getting on board.

The RTA would have the option to increase the local income tax by 0.25-percent to fund projects.

The tax would raise an estimated $16 million from residents in St. Joseph, making it the second highest amount of the four counties eligible to become part of the RTA.

Those in favor of the railroad improvements said the RTA would bring economic development and jobs to the area.

Since it is a special election, the number of polling sites have been cut back to save Monday.

Head to the Big Red Bar for a full list of polling locations, or you can call the St. Joseph County voter registration office with questions at (574) 235-9521. Polls are open until 6 p.m.

Meanwhile, BMV branches have extended their hours for the election so those without an ID can still get one in time to vote. In the counties participating in the election, branches will be open until 7 p.m.

The BMV provides free, state-issued ID cards for voting purposes to any unlicensed Hoosier who can provide proper documentation. You need a primary document, like a birth certificate or passport, plus a secondary document, like a pay stub or signed credit card, and proof of residency.