Chicago is one step closer to securing the funding it needs to buy and renovate its South Loop Greyhound bus station, a move that could bring much-needed intercity transportation infrastructure to the city.
As part of Mayor Brandon Johnson's 2026 budget process, Alderman Bill Conway (34th Ward) unexpectedly discovered $50 million in line item funding for the project. This was revealed during a public meeting held by the Department of Planning and Development last week, where officials discussed expanding the Canal/Congress tax increment financing district to include the Greyhound station.
The first hearing on the amendment is set to take place on April 14 at a Community Development Commission meeting. If the amendment passes, it could pave the way for the city to purchase the property this year.
The proposed terminal would feature significant improvements, including a rebranded "Chicago Bus Terminal" with strong city branding. The building's design would also include features like large "CHI" letters, signifying the city's call sign, and a glass foyer providing a nicer waiting area for travelers waiting for rideshare pickups.
According to DePaul University's Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development, researchers have proposed modest improvements that could make the station an anchor of the central area's transportation system. However, concerns remain about public safety around the bus station, with Alderman Conway expressing doubts about the city's ability to secure a good deal on the property.
Greyhound was saved from closing its Chicago terminal by a last-minute offer of a month-to-month lease, which it is still operating under. If the city buys the property, it would be a significant step towards providing much-needed intercity bus service to the city, following in the footsteps of other large cities that operate public bus terminals.
The proposed renovations are seen as a positive development for travelers and commuters alike, who would benefit from improved facilities and increased transportation options. With the city taking steps to secure funding, it remains to be seen whether all parties involved can come together to bring this ambitious project to fruition.
As part of Mayor Brandon Johnson's 2026 budget process, Alderman Bill Conway (34th Ward) unexpectedly discovered $50 million in line item funding for the project. This was revealed during a public meeting held by the Department of Planning and Development last week, where officials discussed expanding the Canal/Congress tax increment financing district to include the Greyhound station.
The first hearing on the amendment is set to take place on April 14 at a Community Development Commission meeting. If the amendment passes, it could pave the way for the city to purchase the property this year.
The proposed terminal would feature significant improvements, including a rebranded "Chicago Bus Terminal" with strong city branding. The building's design would also include features like large "CHI" letters, signifying the city's call sign, and a glass foyer providing a nicer waiting area for travelers waiting for rideshare pickups.
According to DePaul University's Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development, researchers have proposed modest improvements that could make the station an anchor of the central area's transportation system. However, concerns remain about public safety around the bus station, with Alderman Conway expressing doubts about the city's ability to secure a good deal on the property.
Greyhound was saved from closing its Chicago terminal by a last-minute offer of a month-to-month lease, which it is still operating under. If the city buys the property, it would be a significant step towards providing much-needed intercity bus service to the city, following in the footsteps of other large cities that operate public bus terminals.
The proposed renovations are seen as a positive development for travelers and commuters alike, who would benefit from improved facilities and increased transportation options. With the city taking steps to secure funding, it remains to be seen whether all parties involved can come together to bring this ambitious project to fruition.
! Can you believe they found $50 million in funding for the South Loop Greyhound bus station? It's like the city is finally taking control of its own destiny, you know? And think about it, a renovated terminal with "CHI" letters and a glass foyer? That sounds straight fire 
. It's not just about the transportation infrastructure, though - this could be a game-changer for commuters who need reliable options to get around the city.
And, honestly, wouldn't it be awesome if other cities could learn from Chicago's lead? 
. I mean, think about it, we're investing $50 million in one terminal when we should be focusing on the bigger picture: building a comprehensive network of public transportation that actually works for everyone. It's like, what's the point of having a fancy new bus station if we're just gonna leave people stranded without reliable connections to other parts of the city? 
I'm calling for a full-on transportation overhaul, with input from community groups, transit advocates, and local leaders. Anything less is just kicking the can down the road 
.
It's not just about getting people from point A to point B, it's about creating a welcoming experience for travelers and commuters alike. Plus, this project could be a great way to revitalize the area around the station. Fingers crossed that everything comes together and we get to see this vision become a reality! 
I've been waiting for so long to see some action on that old Greyhound station in the South Loop. $50 million is a huge chunk of change, and if they can get it done, it'll be amazing to have a modern bus terminal with all those fancy features 
like the giant "CHI" letters! I'm worried about public safety around there too though... how are they gonna make sure everything runs smoothly?