Pace and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) have secured two grants totaling $58 million to support the transition to electric buses, officials announced. The funding will be used to replace 57 older buses with battery-electric models operating in and around Chicago.
Pace, the suburban transit provider, will introduce 27 electric buses, while CTA will add 30 to its fleet. The grants will cover up to 75% of the eligible cost per electric bus, with Pace contributing $9 million and the Regional Transportation Authority (on behalf of CTA) providing another $10 million.
See also: Illinois Secures Nearly $20 Million for Electric School Bus Initiative
The funding comes from Illinois’ allocation of the Volkswagen (VW) Settlement, a nationwide agreement reached after the automaker’s emissions scandal. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has allocated a portion of the settlement funds to support cleaner transit options, including 33 new electric buses for CTA.
“It’s refreshing to see how something that began as a challenge for Volkswagen has been turned into a positive force for change, furthering both our region’s and the state’s pollution reduction goals,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. “This transformation underscores the real impact of investing in clean transportation solutions.”
See also: Glades County School District Deploys 13 Electric Buses with $5 Million EPA Grant
Governor JB Pritzker emphasized the broader benefits of the investment, stating, “Illinoisans of all backgrounds depend on Pace and the CTA. Whether commuting to work, visiting friends and family, or running their everyday errands – the convenience and efficiency of these systems is absolutely essential to their everyday lives.” He added, “Electric buses are vital to the future of transit – clean, reliable, and convenient – and I’m excited to be taking a step toward that future today.”
The investment aligns with Illinois’ broader climate goals, supporting efforts to reduce emissions and enhance public transportation sustainability.