Related News: Chicago’s Pace Approves Budget, Unveils Hybrid Bus and Keeps Riders Moving Forward Without a Fare Hike
New Pace VanGo Service Coming to Joliet to Boost First/Last-Mile Connections
Pace and the City of Joliet marked the launch of VanGo, a reservation-based service aimed at helping commuters cover first- and last-mile trips to work for $5 per day.

(L-R): Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy; Pace Board Member John Noak; Joliet City Manager Beth Beatty; Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger; Pace Chairman Rick Kwasneski; and Illinois State Representative Larry Walsh, Jr.
Photo: Pace Suburban Bus
Pace Suburban Bus, in partnership with the City of Joliet, announced the launch of VanGo, a reservation-based service intended to help close first-mile/last-mile gaps by connecting riders to employment for $5 per day.
“Reliable transportation is a cornerstone of opportunity. VanGo gives workers in Joliet a convenient and affordable way to reach jobs,” said Pace Chairman Rick Kwasneski.
How VanGo Works
VanGo allows commuters to reserve a vehicle for round-trip travel within a defined service zone surrounding the transit center. After registering, users receive a code to unlock a vehicle, make local trips, and return the van at the end of the day.
“VanGo is a flexible transit innovation that provides on-demand service built around the needs of commuters,” said State Representative Larry Walsh Jr.
Pace said the partnership with Joliet helped launch the service, including the city’s commitment of dedicated vehicle parking at the transit center.
“VanGo is a win for Joliet residents and Joliet employers alike,” said Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy. “This partnership with Pace gives our community another dependable option to access jobs and move throughout the city.”
Reservations, Eligibility, and Registration
Reservations can be made any time of day. Pace handles maintenance, insurance, and fueling.
“Bringing VanGo to Joliet is about expanding opportunity,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger.
VanGo is intended to integrate with Pace routes and Metra service. Drivers must be at least 21 and meet standard requirements, including a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a clean driving record.
More Management

Keolis and SNCF Voyageurs Bring Rail Expertise to California High-Speed Rail
The CDA establishes a collaborative predevelopment partnership intended to evaluate future delivery opportunities through public-private partnership models.
Read More →
Ford to Leave JTA After More Than 10 Years as CEO
He plans to continue his work advancing innovative mobility solutions to improve the quality of life in communities across the nation. He did not announce specific plans.
Read More →
Stadler Marks 10 Years in the U.S. with Salt Lake City Expansion
The expansion is expected to create up to 300 new local jobs, some of which are youth apprenticeships, said Stadler officials.
Read More →
Hitachi Rail Completes Acquisition of Intelligent Transportation Systems Provider Clever Devices
The acquisition expands Hitachi Rail's North American presence and multimodal capabilities, combining rail and bus technologies to deliver more integrated digital solutions for transit agencies.
Read More →
Utah Transit Authority Adopts New Governance Model
State leaders said the changes will improve oversight, coordinate transportation investments, and support expanding transit service across the Wasatch Front.
Read More →
Federal Highway Administration Seeks Public Input on Future of Interstate System
The initiative invites feedback on new routes, major upgrades, and emerging transportation needs, including issues that could affect public transit and motorcoach operations.
Read More →
New York MTA to Replace Three East End LIRR Bridges
Each structure, built between 1895 and 1921, serves vehicular traffic over the LIRR’s Montauk Branch.
Read More →
Transit Pilot Offers Lessons for Expanding Mobility Access
An Urban Institute evaluation found that a fare-free transit program increased ridership, reduced transportation barriers, and improved access to jobs, healthcare, and other essential services.
Read More →
Tolar Manufacturing Marks 35 Years in Transit Infrastructure Industry
Founded in 1991 by Gary Tolar, the Corona, Calif.-based company has expanded from its first major transit contract in San Diego to projects in cities throughout the US and Canada.
Read More →
SEPTA Board Approves FY2027 Budget Amid Funding Challenges
The spending plan represents an increase of just 1.9% over the current year and includes investments in new buses, additional full-length fare gates, and other customer enhancements.
Read More →