Kane County to Launch Countywide Coordinated Paratransit Program in 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, Kane County will transition its Ride in Kane Program to a countywide Coordinated Ride model, providing a more simplified way for users to register, schedule trips and ensure the same travel destinations for all eligible residents. Since 2008, Ride in Kane has provided advanced reservation transportation for seniors (65+) and individuals with disabilities to medical appointments, work and other approved purposes.

Currently, the paratransit program is administered by more than 18 community sponsors, resulting in inconsistencies in eligibility, rules and access. Under the new system, Kane County will serve as the grant recipient and program administrator, while Pace Suburban Bus will continue to operate the dial-a-ride service and will manage a new unified rider registration system and call center. This change gives all users one place to register for the service and one number to call to make a reservation.

Funding for Ride in Kane includes a 50% operating cost subsidy from Pace Suburban Bus. The remaining 50% will be funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for veterans' trips and Section 5310 federal funds provided by the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) for trips serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Who Can Use Ride in Kane?

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​Ride in Kane provides 24/7 curb-to-curb transportation for eligible Kane County residents:

Seniors (65+) and Individuals with Disabilities

• Travel anywhere within Kane County and to municipalities partially within the county

Veterans

• Travel to approved locations, including:

  • Hoffman Estates VA Clinic

  • Aurora Veterans Clinic

  • Veterans Treatment Court (Kane County Judicial Center)

  • Aurora Vet Center

Trips beginning or ending outside Kane County must start or finish within the county.

Fares

• $5.00 per trip (first 10 miles)

• $2.00 per additional mile

• Payment accepted via Ventra at the time of reservation or exact cash onboard

Program Highlights

• All vehicles are wheelchair accessible

• Shared-ride service; other passengers may be picked up or dropped off during your trip

• Curb-to-curb service; drivers do not escort riders outside the vehicle or carry packages

• One personal care attendant allowed per rider

• Riders under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult
  

How to Start Using Ride in Kane

Step 1 – Determine Your Eligibility Category

Seniors (65+) & Individuals with Disabilities
Contact the RTA to obtain a Reduced Fare or Free Fare Permit:

• RTA Permit Application Portal

• More information: 📞 (312) 913-3110 | 🌐 RTA Travel Assistance

Veterans

• No RTA permit required
  

• Provide your Veterans Healthcare ID number when registering

Step 2 – Register with Pace Suburban Bus

• Call the Pace call center with your eligibility information

• Provide your RTA Permit number or Veterans Healthcare ID number

• 📞 1-866-727-6842

  • Mon–Fri: 6 a.m.–6 p.m.

  • Sat–Sun: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Step 3 – Schedule Your Ride in Kane Trips

• Reserve trips 2 hours to 7 days in advance

• 📞 1-866-727-6842

• Service is available 365 days a year