I-290 / I-88 Express Bus Study

New Feasibility Study to Enhance Connectivity on I-290 & I-88 Expressways

Pace Bus is in the early stages of an I-290/I-88 Express Bus Study to explore potential transit opportunities within a five-mile radius of the Interstate 290 Eisenhower Expressway corridor.  This study will evaluate potential expressway-based bus services, including bus-on-shoulder operations, connecting key destinations such as the CTA Forest Park Blue Line Transit Center, the Oak Brook Center/Cermak-Butterfield corridor, and the Schaumburg/Woodfield region.

This feasibility study will assess the potential for faster and more efficient transportation option for commuters traveling between various west suburban locations and Chicago. The study will explore the viability and demand for the proposed I-290 Pace Route, which would offer limited-stop service, ensuring reduced travel times while maintaining key connections to major suburban hubs.

Community input will play a vital role in shaping the study’s findings, and residents, workers, and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in upcoming public meetings and/or a focus group to share your perspective.

Designed with equity in mind, the proposed route aims to integrate with Metra, and CTA rail service, allowing riders to transition easily between different modes of public transportation. This improved connectivity could be particularly beneficial for commuters traveling during peak hours, offering a reliable and efficient alternative to driving.

The feasibility study will analyze various factors, including ridership demand, travel patterns, and operational logistics, to determine the most effective design for an express bus service. Community input will play a vital role in shaping the study’s findings, and residents, workers, and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in upcoming public meetings and surveys to share their perspectives.

The study seeks to address growing demand for improved public transit options, enhancing accessibility and reducing congestion along the corridor. By providing an expedited service, the potential route could significantly enhance mobility for residents, workers, and visitors who rely on public transportation for their daily commutes.

Riders and community members are encouraged to stay informed and contribute to the discussion about this important transit initiative. Service details, including findings from the feasibility study and potential next steps, will be shared on PACE’s website in the coming months. 

I-290/I-88 Express Bus Steering Committee

 The study's steering committee will be asked to provide insights that will be essential to this project. In addition, committee members will share information about their communities and identify potential partners to help Pace:

• Increase investments in future growth markets
• Explore new transit markets
• Provide connections to planned and existing Pace, CTA, and Metra services where feasible.

The first steering committee meeting occurred on Friday, March 14.

Community Input

Community input will also play a vital role in shaping the study’s findings, and residents, workers, and stakeholders will be encouraged to participate in upcoming public meetings and online surveys to share your perspectives.

Documents

1st Public Meeting Recording (June 5, 2025)

Travel Market Analysis (July 11, 2025)

Study Map Zone #1 (North)

Study Map Zone #2 (Central)

Study Map Zone #3 (South)

Study Map Zone #4 (East)