Hinsdale South reviews Uber rides to ensure no duplication with bus services

The DuPage County Transportation Committee convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss the effectiveness and financial implications of the county's transportation programs, particularly focusing on the use of rideshare services like Uber for students and residents.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the high number of rides taken by students from Hinsdale South High School. Committee members expressed the need to ensure that these rides are not duplicating existing bus services. Discussions highlighted that many of these rides occur outside of regular school hours, suggesting they may be for after-school activities rather than routine transportation to and from school. Committee members proposed conducting an audit to better understand the nature of these trips and to determine if they are serving a genuine need or simply replacing traditional bus services.

The committee also addressed the role of PACE, the regional public transportation provider, in improving bus routes in the area. It was noted that PACE had previously ceased operations on several routes, which may have contributed to the increased reliance on rideshare services. Members emphasized the importance of tracking ridership patterns to encourage PACE to reconsider its service areas and potentially enhance public transportation options.

Additionally, the committee acknowledged the success of the current transportation program, which has significantly improved access for many residents, particularly those in underserved areas. However, concerns were raised about the program's costs. Suggestions were made to implement a nominal fare for users, which could help offset expenses while still providing affordable transportation options.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate these issues and explore potential solutions to enhance transportation services in DuPage County, particularly for those who lack access to public transit.