Pace Sets Monthly Post-Pandemic Ridership Record

This past month, Pace (Arlington Heights, IL) served the highest monthly total of riders throughout its entire system since the COVID-19 pandemic began more than four years ago, carrying more than 2 million riders in September 2024.

“In fact, ridership for September 2024 increased 13.2% percent from September 2023 figures — with both time periods having the same number of weekdays. This major milestone was shared during a recent Pace Board of Directors’ meeting,” according to a press release.

Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger added: “Our focus on innovative and flexible service options, along with increasing our frequency and weekend service on the busiest corridors, is working. We continue to see positive momentum in gaining back riders, and the latest ridership numbers reflect this momentum.”

Ridership trends at Pace have continued to surge throughout 2024. Pace continues to see strong demand for weekend service in 2024, as well as strong demand for the Pulse bus rapid transit lines.

During the recent meeting, the Board of Directors also discussed significant service expansion pilot projects that take effect at the end of the year.

“Pace is committed to meeting the evolving needs of our riders in this post-pandemic era,” Pace Chairman Rick Kwasneski said. “For example, piloted expansions of high-demand fixed bus routes in the region creates increased frequency and expanded options on both weekdays and weekends, ensuring riders have stronger access to jobs, education, and essential services in the area. Pace is looking forward to continuing our positive post-pandemic momentum to serving our riders.”

Pace Suburban Bus provides transit options for the residents of 274 municipalities in the northeastern Illinois counties of Cook, Will, DuPage, Kane, Lake, and McHenry. One of the largest bus services in North America, Pace covers 3,677 square miles, an area nearly the size of Connecticut and about 15 times the size of Chicago.