Geneva VanGo Expands Access to Jobs, Strengthens Transit Connections

Pace Suburban Bus, Arlington Heights, IL, joined Rep. Bill Foster (D-IL), Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns, State Representative Dan Ugaste, State Representative Matt Hanson, and community leaders recently to launch Geneva VanGo, Pace’s ninth VanGo service in the region.

Pace’s VanGo is a reservation-based service designed to close first-mile/last-mile gaps and make it easier for workers to reach job opportunities within a local service zone. After registering, users can reserve a vehicle for round-trip travel within a designated service zone. For Geneva users, the VanGo van is available at the Geneva Metra Station and can be used for trips to worksites within a 13-mile radius.

“As our communities continue to grow, it’s important that our transportation system evolves to meet people’s changing needs,” said Rep. Foster. “Innovative, on-demand transit options like VanGo are an important part of that future, and I congratulate Pace on bringing this service to Geneva.”

Geneva VanGo follows the recent launches of Crystal Lake and University Park VanGo earlier this year. “Geneva is proud to welcome Pace’s VanGo service to our community, and we embrace the promise of a reliable, affordable, and convenient transportation benefit for the employers and employees who drive our economic success,” said Mayor Burns.

“VanGo provides another flexible option to address service in the suburbs,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. “VanGo gives commuters a practical way to complete their trip by connecting them directly to their workplace. As Pace continues to expand the VanGo program, we’re helping workers access employment opportunities while giving employers another tool to attract and retain a larger group of employees.”

Rob Desio, senior manager of public policy and benefits at the Northern Illinois Food Bank in Geneva, said VanGo delivers greater accessibility for local employers like the food bank. “We are trying to attract talent from all over the region, and anything that increases accessibility is good for the community,” he said. “VanGo provides this area with a different kind of accessibility that will also benefit the entire region.”