ReVision: Pace's Network Restructuring Project

Travel patterns have changed, and Pace is changing with them. We are reimagin­ing our system and we need your input to help shape the future of suburban transit in northeastern Illinois. 

Thank you to everyone who reviewed our three Network Concepts and shared their feedback through the ReVision survey, via email, or at an open house! Your insights are essential as we work to modernize our system. These concepts show three different ways Pace could improve transit services under two funding scenarios.

Pace developed these transit network concepts to show how differing priorities impact what the bus route network could look like, while considering the overall needs of commuters and businesses throughout the region. We collected feedback via a survey from November through January, and those responses provided us with a good understanding of the public’s wishes. While we are presently evaluating the information we collected, you still have an opportunity to tell us what you think by sending us an email (see link below). 

View the summary or full report below and provide your feedback via email at the link below.

What is the Pace ReVision plan?

Through ReVision, Pace is rethinking our entire network of services, building on the principles of accessibility, equity and productivity defined in the Driving Innovation strategic plan.

The ReVision project is developing a proposal for a reimagined Pace bus and On Demand network, leading to major service changes starting in 2026.

Pace has collected input from your survey comments and we are analyzing the proposed network concept responses received. Next, the Pace team will propose a Draft Plan in mid-2025 based on the market data gathered and feedback received during the previous project phases. Then, after receiving public input on the Draft Plan, Pace will develop a Final Plan for implementation releasing this proposal for public feedback in late 2025.

Objectives 

As our region emerges from the pandemic, we recognize that travel patterns have changed, and Pace needs to adjust to meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s society. We plan to update and modernize our service offerings to continue being a good steward of taxpayer resources while maximizing access to jobs, education, medical services, and other destinations.

Process and Timeline

To meet these objectives, the project team has:

• Analyzed existing transit services, and relevant demographic and travel patterns.
• Developed and presented future network concepts, to illustrate both key trade-offs (such as the ridership vs. coverage trade-off) and the opportunities that could be opened up with new funding.
• Conducted a survey of the public to gauge opinions about the Network Concepts released in November 2024.

The next steps in the project are to:

• Create a Draft Plan for service improvements by incorporating the feedback gathered from the public and stakeholders on the proposed network concepts for release in mid-2025.
• Gather public and stakeholder feedback on the Draft Plan and incorporate the feedback to develop a Final Plan for 2026.

Throughout the process, Pace staff across the organization will be engaged to ensure a viable plan and successful implementation of service changes.

We want to hear from you!

Please note: The Network Concepts survey is now closed. But, Pace is still accepting public comments on the Network Concepts or your suggested improvements via the revision@pacebus.com email.

To enhance Pace’s transit network throughout the suburban Chicagoland area, Pace is gathering transportation suggestions from our riders, former riders, employers, advocates, business & community leaders and all stakeholders. We hope to gain valuable insights and ideas that can lead to more efficient and convenient bus routes and other transit options, while continuing to provide equitable and environmentally responsible transit options for the residents of the six counties and 274 municipalities we serve. 

This initiative will help us find specific areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing bus frequency on certain routes, optimizing route planning, identifying new pickup and drop-off locations, and even adding other mobility options where none existed before. By involving the community in this process, we hope to create a more user-centered and responsive public transportation system that meets the diverse needs of area residents and today’s society.

What does this plan mean for me?

The restructuring of bus service will bring about many positive outcomes for our current riders, future riders, and communities. The primary benefits will be increased accessibility and convenience for a greater number of commuters. With improved routes, convenient operating hours, and better connectivity, more individuals will have access to reliable and affordable transportation options.

How do I get involved? 

As Pace considers critical systems changes, we want to emphasize that your opinions and input are essential to shape Pace’s future service network.  Pace needs everyone to provide valuable input. Let us know where we need to better serve you today, tomorrow, and in the future. As the project evolves there will be plenty of opportunities to get involved. Here are a few examples:

• Sign up for email/text alerts below to stay updated about the project
• Provide feedback by email at your convenience