IL Gov. Pritzker Joins Pace to Celebrate New Facility

Governor JB Pritzker addresses guests at the grand opening of Pace’s new facility in Markham, IL.

Pace Suburban Bus, Arlington Heights, Il, welcomed Gov. JB Pritzker, Illinois state representatives, Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Ozman, and Markham Mayor Roger Agpawa, along with state and community leaders, recently, to celebrate the completion of its new facility in Markham.

Pace’s latest investment in the south suburbs marks a significant milestone in modernizing operations, bolstering the agency’s south suburban workforce, and enhancing central safety and training, including the introduction of a bus driver training course.

“Investing in Pace and public transportation is not only a commitment to mobility and access to opportunity, but also a strategic investment that generates returns for our region’s economy,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. “In addition to this building, this campus will be home to our customer relations, sign and shelter crew, our IT backup data center, and safety and training staff.”

The Markham campus project was made possible by a $7.1 million investment from the governor’s historic, bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program and an additional $27.1 million in state funding. Additional funding was provided by FTA ($1.3 million), Regional Transportation Authority Bonds ($1.9 million), and Pace capital funds ($2.6 million).

“Not only does this project make Pace a more efficient and modern part of our transit system, but it also prioritizes clean and efficient energy growth—a win across the board,” said Gov. Pritzker. “Rebuild Illinois is funding projects like this all across the state, making a stronger Illinois that works better for its people.”

The Markham site has spurred economic development through job creation and will improve access to employment by supporting Pace service throughout the south suburbs. “One of the hallmarks of my administration as chairman of the Pace Board is ensuring that Pace contributes to economic development in our region. This project is another example of that value we create,” said Rick Kwasneski.