Pace Celebrates Launch Of New Pace Connect Service

Shown, left to right, are: Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger; Congresswoman Robin Kelly; Harvey, IL, Mayor Christopher J Clark; Pace Chairman Rick Kwasneski; RTA Board Member Elizabeth Doody Gorman; Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways (DoTH) Superintendent Jennifer “Sis” Killen; Pace Director Terry R. Wells; and Pace Director David Guerin.

Pace Suburban Bus (metro Chicago, IL) and local officials recently celebrated the launch of Pace Connect, a new transit service designed to provide a “first and last mile” transit option during late night hours in two designated zones. The service, which is funded in part from grants received from RTA and Cook County, IL, provides crucial transportation connections geared toward third shift workers.

Pace Connect is a shared ride service where a rider can book a trip through the new Pace Connect app (available in App Store and Google Play), or through a call center for those who do not have access to a smartphone, to connect with nearby transit stations, or in some cases, be dropped off at their home.

The app, which is powered by Via, uses algorithms to match riders headed in the same direction into one vehicle — maximizing the service’s efficiency and affordability. Rides cost $2 each (or less if the rider pays by Ventra and transfers from a fixed route service), and riders can pay by credit card through the Pace Connect app or by using in-vehicle Ventra Card readers.

“We’re excited to unveil yet another innovation,” Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger said. “This addition to Pace’s family of services provides a new option for third-shift workers, enhancing job access for underserved communities.”

Pace Chairman Rick Kwasneski focused on Pace’s spirit of partnership embodied by this new service.

“This is yet another example of Pace working with our peers at RTA and Cook County to enhance and integrate service in the south suburbs,” he said. “Riders can now utilize Pace, CTA, and Metra service at all hours and still have a way to get from our transportation center to work or to home.”

For more information about Pace Connect, visit PaceBus.com/Connect.