The electric transformation of Chicago’s Pace Suburban Bus reached a major milestone when state and local officials joined agency leaders to break ground on the renovation of the agency’s North Division Garage. 

The project will create the region’s first bus facility designed to support an all-electric fleet and move forward Pace’s transition to a zero-emission fleet.

Pace’s Electric Bus Upgrade

The upgrades to the facility places Waukegan at the forefront of Project Zero, Pace’s initiative to reduce pollution and honor statewide climate goals by converting its entire bus fleet to zero-emissions technology by 2040. 

By launching this effort in Waukegan, Pace is prioritizing communities historically impacted by industrial pollution and economic disinvestment, ensuring they benefit from the agency’s clean energy transition.

"Today marks another step forward in Pace’s commitment to a zero-emission future," said Pace Chairman Rick Kwasneski. "We already have a few zero-emission and hybrid buses in service, but this facility will take our sustainability efforts to the next level. Once completed, North Division will have the capacity to charge and house a fleet of 60 zero-emission buses."

Path to Project Zero

The electrification of the North Division Garage is being funded through Rebuild Illinois and federal grants. 

Pace estimates that fully achieving Project Zero will require approximately $2.5 billion which includes facility upgrades and vehicles.

"Pace is incredibly proud of our commitment to operating a zero-emission fleet, and I am proud of our personnel for embracing this operational change. Our North Division Garage has always been a major contributor to Lake County, providing public transit to the residents including essential workers, seniors, people with disabilities and students, so I am glad we can make this critical investment to Waukegan," said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger.

The first zero-emission buses are expected to operate out of Waukegan by late 2025 following the installation of 12 chargers and the construction of a covered outdoor charging facility. 

The second phase of the project, expanding and modernizing the entire garage, is expected to be completed by 2027.