Study Overview
Pace and the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) are studying the I-294/I-90 corridor from Harvey to Schaumburg. This study identified and evaluated options that will enable Pace express buses to capitalize on roadway improvements being constructed by the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority (the Illinois Tollway), called the Central Tri-State Project.
The Central Tri-State Project incorporates improvements including Flex Lanes, which will be available to Pace buses to avoid congestion, making this primary travel corridor a critical opportunity for Pace.
The I-294 Tri-State Market and Facilities Study recommends:
* Plans for faster and more reliable express bus service in the study area
* Expansion of bus service to new or underserved areas within the study area
* Stations, roadways, and other infrastructure needed to support this new and improved service
* A plan for implementing these new and improved bus services and associated support infrastructure
These recommendations are based on the analysis of existing and future travel patterns in the study area and determine the most promising bus routes and the physical infrastructure improvements required to implement these bus routes.
Pace and RTA are also coordinating with the Illinois Tollway at key points during study development, and the project is supported by the RTA Community Planning program.
Study Area Map
The study area covers the 48-mile I-294/I-90 corridor between Harvey in the south and Schaumburg in the north. The study area also includes the forthcoming I-490, which will provide a beltway on the west side of O’Hare Airport. The planned I-490 project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Public Involvement
Pace received community feedback from a public survey launched in February 2022 about the draft study recommendations further explained in the report materials provided below.
Pace will also continue to engage with local communities and partner agencies to discuss and refine concepts along the I-294 Tri-State corridor.
