This week, alongside federal, state, and local leaders, Pace Suburban Bus welcomed the start of another construction project that advances accessibility and inclusion for the people who rely on public transportation in northeastern Illinois.

Dozens of elected and community leaders officially broke ground on the project during a ceremony at the future home of the new Calumet City Paratransit Transfer Facility. The capital improvement project, funded predominantly through the State of Illinois' Rebuild Illinois program, represents the region's second dedicated ADA Paratransit transfer facility.

"This project is a testament to what can happen when local governments, state leaders, and transit agencies work together with a shared vision," said Pace Chairman Rick Kwasneski. "Beyond improving transportation options, projects like this drive economic development. Construction projects support good-paying jobs, and better transit access connects people to employment, education, healthcare, and commerce."

A New Standard for Rider Experience

The new Calumet City Paratransit Transfer Facility will feature modern amenities, including an enhanced indoor waiting area and restrooms, as well as improved connections between fixed bus routes and paratransit services.

"I'm grateful to Pace for choosing Calumet City to house this beautiful facility that will benefit the residents of Calumet City and beyond," said Calumet City Mayor Thaddeus Jones. "I am most impressed with the planning and thought process around enhanced accessibility. The facility provides a safe and comfortable transfer point for riders with disabilities, centralizing connections and improving amenities."

"As one of the nation's largest paratransit providers, Pace takes pride in leading the way on accessibility and innovation. Everything we do focuses on improving the experience for our riders and expanding opportunity for all," said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. "The improvements in Calumet City ensure our region remains accessible and inclusive, giving people the freedom and independence to get where they need to go."

Once complete, the transfer facility will feature six new paratransit bus bays, equipped to handle the more than 3,500 boardings at the facility each month. In addition to paratransit service, this building will facilitate transfers between Pace Routes 353, 358, and 364.

The start of the Calumet City Paratransit Transfer Facility follows Pace's unveiling last month of the region's first dedicated ADA Paratransit Facility at the Northwest Transportation Center in Schaumburg.