Reagan Mass Transit District expands services in rural Winnebago County starting July 1

In the heart of Lee County, Illinois, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as the Services Committee convened on May 13, 2025. Among the attendees was Greg, who brought forth a report from the Reagan Mass Transit District, shedding light on the progress and future plans of public transportation in the region.

Greg began by highlighting the positive trends in ridership, noting that the district is on track to achieve approximately 90,000 rides for the fiscal year, alongside 29,000 service hours and an impressive 759,000 miles of service. A particularly encouraging detail was the fuel cost savings, estimated to be around $30,000 less than projected, a welcome relief for the district's budget.

One of the most significant developments discussed was the newly signed service contract with Winnebago County, which will introduce public transportation to the rural western portion of the county for the first time. Set to launch on July 1, this initiative promises to expand access and mobility for residents who have long been without such services. Greg expressed excitement about the potential growth of the transit system, mentioning the procurement of three new vehicles to support this expansion.

In addition to immediate service improvements, the Reagan Mass Transit District is also looking toward the future with innovative studies. A collaboration with the University of Illinois is underway, focusing on the feasibility of hydrogen fuel in rural transit operations. This 18-month study aims to explore sustainable fuel options that could revolutionize public transportation in the area.

Moreover, the district is engaged in a Transit Desert study with Northern Illinois University, which is currently in its second phase. This phase involves gathering public input through focus groups targeting seniors, veterans, and other key populations to better understand transit needs. Greg announced that similar focus groups will be conducted in Lee County later this year, emphasizing the district's commitment to community engagement.

As a final note, Greg shared plans for a fundraising golf outing to support the Reagan Mass Transit District, showcasing the community's dedication to enhancing public transportation services.

The meeting underscored a pivotal moment for Lee County's transit landscape, with new initiatives and studies paving the way for a more connected and accessible future. As the committee adjourned, the excitement for the upcoming changes lingered in the air, promising a brighter horizon for public transportation in the region.