CHICAGO ─ To ensure residents across the 8th District have accessible transportation options, State Senator Ram Villivalam helped secure the future of the Niles Free Bus Program.
“I am grateful for the steadfast effort between the Village of Niles and Pace to secure a contract ensuring that our community members have safe, reliable, accessible, and integrated transportation options that get them to their school, job, doctor's appointment, and much more” said Villivalam (D-Chicago).
The Village of Niles operates the Niles Free Bus Program – a courtesy bus system operation within Village limits at no charge to residents in conjunction with Pace. The busses run continuously from 9:30 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. Monday through Sunday and stop at all major shopping centers, public facilities and within a short stop of every residence.
“Working together with State Legislators as well as Pace, we are pleased to bring back the Niles Free Bus service to the residents of Niles,” said Mayor Alpogianis, Village of Niles. “We remain committed to enhancing Niles’ transportation system to ensure residents and visitors have access to everything we have to offer, such as shopping, dining, parks, and our library in a way that is financially responsible and sustainable for residents”.
“We appreciate the strong partnership with the Village of Niles and our legislative leaders in restoring this service. By maintaining the routes residents rely on, we’re ensuring the Niles Free Bus remains a dependable mobility option for years to come,” said Melinda Metzger, Executive Director of Pace.
Villivalam worked alongside the Village of Niles, Pace and other stakeholders to continue contractual discussions. On Feb. 17 2026, parties involved came to an agreement. Pace would carry insurance for busses used as part of the Niles Free Bus Program and the Village of Niles would re-reimburse Pace the cost. This ensures that all parties involved are covered by insurance and that if a claim were need to be made, the premiums costs would not rise for the Village of Niles entirely.
“We’re thrilled that we were able to establish a free bus system for the village of Niles,” said State Representative Mike Kelly (D-Chicago). “People use these buses daily to get to work, visit service facilities, or to go shopping. Not having to worry about how they’ll be able to afford going out to run their errands will offer them a major sense of relief and encourage residents to travel in the community.”
Additionally, as part of the agreement, Pace will provide the Village of Niles with new busses, building upon Paces’ modernization efforts and increasing accessibility for persons with disabilities.
“The Niles Free Bus Program has been a reliable resource in our community for years and its operation has made transportation easy and accessible for all nearby residents,” said State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “I am thrilled at the agreement reached between the Village of Niles and Pace, which will keep the program up and running for the Niles community.”
To learn more about the agreement, click here.
