Illinois Transit Authority Opens New CNG Fueling Facility

Pace, the transit authority that services the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, is transition its fleet of diesel buses with models powered by CNG. Pace leaders were joined earlier this week by federal, state and local officials at the dedication of an all-new fueling facility at its South Division garage in Markham. When the buses enter service this summer, Pace will be the first transit agency in the Chicago area and the third in the state to adopt CNG technology for its fleet.

Pace has taken delivery of its first 20 CNG buses, with an additional 71 on order that will replace the remaining diesel buses at Pace South Division upon arrival. The first CNG buses will enter service this summer following completion of vehicle testing, staff training and additional garage retrofits to accommodate the CNG vehicles. Once the entire South Division fleet is converted to CNG-powered buses, Pace estimates up to $1 million will be saved on its fuel costs versus what is spent today on diesel fuel.

Pace also opted for the cleaner burning fuel to meet ever-tightening EPA emissions guidelines without costly equipment designed to trap particles that diesel engines release into the air.