Innovation, Coordination, and Enhancement (ICE) Projects

This project will develop and use a combination of real-time bus arrival signs, Quick Response (QR) codes and a short (text) messaging service (SMS) to create access to real-time next bus information. The scope includes: purchase and installation of up to five real-time signs at five heavily used locations, up to 900 QR codes will be created, printed, laminated and affixed to information panels inside bus stop shelters, up to 15,000 unique code numbers will be created, printed and affixed to bus stop signs throughout the Pace service area. Pace anticipates using the labor of several interns to accomplish this project. This project will also provide funding for the purchase of supplies such as vinyl decals and lamination material.

Provide upgrades to CTA applications and/or processes including the following: Hastus: Update of Planning/Scheduling software application used for planning, operations, customer information, and analysis. Learning Management System: The project objective is to implement a cloud based learning management system that provides a unified and comprehensive eLearning platform that allows for training registration, approval by management and tracking, with real time reporting.

The goal of the Milwaukee Avenue Transit Signal Priority Demonstration project is to test the integration of Transit Signal Priority (TSP) technology that will allow Pace and CTA buses to interact with multiple types of traffic signal systems located along the same corridor. It includes developing a message set and testing of TSP communication from Pace buses at two signalized intersections; programing of IBS/Trapeze to generate a priority request to send standard messages; and programming of existing signal controller for receipt and granting of TSP. The RTA ICE project will focus on signal coordination with the CTA/CDOT portion of Milwaukee Avenue.

Provides for the installation of LED/LCD signs at various points of contact throughout CTA’s service area in an effort to coordinate information for customers using multiple modes of transportation. The displays will provide real-time bus arrival information or as an outlet to make other related transit announcements. FY 2013 funding will provide for the installation of additional LED/LCD Real Time Bus Arrival Signs in the CTA service area. In addition, funds will provide for maintenance, installation, network costs and an additional back end leased service needed to support the implementation of signs.