by Edward Madden, Pace Suburban Bus

Pace is working hard for our riders, offering many new and expanded services and robust technological improvements! With our commitment to innovation, we are constantly striving to provide our riders with the best transportation options possible all while being a responsible steward of taxpayer funds.

Transit App

The Transit app is Pace’s recommended trip-planning app. It shows trip plan results that include Pace, CTA, and Metra fixed route services, as well as trip planning results for several of Pace’s reservation-based options: On Demand, Pace Connect and VanGo services.

On Demand

On Demand is a reservation-based, shared-ride service in 10 designated service areas throughout the suburban region and is open to the general public. Reservations can be made up to 7 days in advance and as little as ten minutes prior to pick-up time.

Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Anyone can book a trip and ride the service, as long as the trip starts and ends within an On Demand zone. Reservations are not needed at locations where the service makes scheduled stops.

Also, a new On Demand mobile app is now available as a convenient way to book, change, view, or cancel On Demand reservations. From any smartphone, download the app at the App Store or the Play Store and get on your way! Also, you can continue to book online or call to reserve your trip.

For more information, visit On Demand.

Pace Connect

Pace Connect is a late-night ride-hailing service near O’Hare Airport and Harvey. For only $2 or less per trip, anyone can take a ride within a designated zone to accommodate first/last mile transportation needs during times when fixed route public transportation isn’t readily available. Pace Connect is powered by Via and launched June 27, 2023.

For more information, visit Pace Connect.

VanGo

VanGo offers commuters traveling from train stations in Deerfield, Lake Forest, Palatine, Itasca, or Rosemont to nearby workplaces can now use a new self-service transportation option. No monthly commitment… just reserve a ride on days you need it! Vehicles may be reserved for any time between 6am and 9pm on any given day. Drivers may use the vehicle to go out for lunch provided they stay within 5 miles of the Metra station from which they picked up the van.

For more information, visit VanGo.

Free Fares on Regular Fixed Route Buses

Beginning in early 2024 (stay tuned for an announcement on the exact date), Pace will begin offering free fares on the Pace fixed-route bus system to ADA-certified customers with a valid RTA ADA Paratransit Permit ID Card. While all riders certified for ADA Paratransit have long been able to ride fixed route buses and trains at a discount, this fare change makes those trips even more affordable and encourages use of the service that is more convenient for last-minute travel plan.
According to Pace’s Executive Director Melinda Metzger, “Pace’s fully accessible fixed route bus system provides a flexible transit option for passengers with disabilities. In our commitment to enhancing the transit experience, we are investing in faster, more frequent service and removing financial barriers for those who rely on the essential transportation we provide.”

TripCheck

TripCheck from Pace Paratransit helps passengers keep track of their paratransit rides. The TripCheck web portal allows you to view trip information, cancel trips, and opt in and out of email, text and phone call alerts. Chicago and suburban ADA Paratransit riders, as well as users of Pace-operated Dial-a-Ride services, can use TripCheck. A TripCheck mobile app is coming soon!

For more information about all of Pace transportation services, please visit Pacebus.com and Pacebus.com/riders-disabilities.

Edward Madden is the Coordinator of Public Outreach for Pace Suburban Bus and one of JJ’s List’s Hop on the Bus to Independence presenters. Among his many communication responsibilities, Ed promotes the numerous transportation services that Pace offers in the 6-county Chicagoland region.