Metra Commuters to Gain Payment Options

Metra commuters in Buffalo Grove will soon have more payment options when they park in the train station’s lot.

Village officials voted this week to replace the existing manual pay boxes, which only accept cash and coins, with five automated pay stations that will allow people to pay for parking with debit and credit cards as well as with cash and coins. They will also be able to pay via a smartphone app, allowing those in a rush to process their payment from their departing train.

The new system, which will cost $63,025, will increase efficiency and assist with enforcement efforts, officials said. 

Daily parking will remain $1.75 for those who park before 8 a.m.

Meanwhile, commuters who purchase a bimonthly parking pass will see the cost rise from $50 to $60. The village charged $60 a decade ago, but reduced the price in 2004 to help attract more customers. The new price reflects a discount of 20 percent from the daily rate.

The increase, which will be implemented in January, is expected to generate about $16,320 more per year. The funds will help the village pay for the maintenance of the station and the parking lot, as well as its lease of the land from Commonwealth Edison.