Take the Online Survey or Attend the Upcoming Community Meeting
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL – Pace is exploring the potential for fast and frequent express bus service connecting the western suburbs and Chicago. Community input will play a vital role in shaping the potential service. Residents, commuters, and other stakeholders are invited to participate in the planning process through an online survey and/or by attending a community meeting on Thursday, June 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Austin Room inside the Forest Park Public Library, 7555 Jackson Boulevard, Forest Park, IL 60130. The survey is available at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/I290BusStudySurvey.
The public’s input will help Pace evaluate the viability and demand for I-290 and I-88 Pace Express service. The proposed express service would offer riders bus service with limited stops and the ability to bypass expressway congestion by using the shoulder, ensuring reduced travel times while maintaining key connections to major suburban hubs, including Oak Park, Forest Park, and Oak Brook. Designed with equity and accessibility in mind, the proposal would make it easier for Pace riders to connect to current Metra and CTA rail service, allowing passengers to transition easily between different modes of public transportation. By enhancing connectivity, the new service would provide an affordable and reliable alternative to driving.
“This effort is an important step in identifying ways to improve transit options for suburban commuters,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. “By leveraging express bus service along I-290 and I-88, we have the opportunity to create a fast, frequent, and more sustainable travel option for thousands of riders. We encourage everyone to provide their input at an upcoming public meeting or through our online survey.”
The feasibility study will assess ridership demand, travel patterns, and operational logistics to determine the most effective design for an express bus service. Pace will collaborate with local stakeholders, transportation agencies, and community organizations to ensure the proposed service meets the needs of commuters.
Project details, including findings from the feasibility study and potential next steps, will be shared on Pace’s website at www.Pacebus.com/I-290-study in the coming months.
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