Innovation, Coordination, and Enhancement (ICE) Projects

This project supports Pace's first arterial rapid transit line on Milwaukee Avenue, the first of seven priority corridors in the Pulse network. ICE funds will be used to support the operation of this line.

The scope includes replacement of the current IBS equipment, which includes 725 units of Intelligent Vehicle Logic Units (IVLU), Mobile Data Terminals (MDT), antennas, interface cabling, adapter cables, radio cables, and installation & conversion kits, replacement of 34 access points, and the purchase of two MCC-7100 dispatch radios. This project will be phased in over three years using ICE funding. Pace will award a single contract for the whole scope, but will award funding as it becomes available over the three year period.

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.

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.