Politics

Connecting Aurora plan reaches Milestone 3 with 36 prioritized projects

Aurora residents may see changes in how they reach local jobs, services and destinations as the city advances its first multimodal transportation plan.

By Aurora Policy Desk · Published July 24, 2026

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Connecting Aurora plan reaches Milestone 3 with 36 prioritized projects — Photo by NASA Goddard Photo and Video / nasa (by)

Aurora, Illinois is developing its first citywide multimodal Transportation Master Plan, named Connecting Aurora, which targets safety, convenience and sustainability for movement through the city. The plan has completed the existing conditions and scenario test analysis milestones and is now in Milestone 3, focused on development of the network and transit options. Officials have narrowed 50 improvement options down to 36 prioritized projects.

Transit connections and daily travel

Public transit in Aurora relies on the Metra BNSF commuter rail line for connectivity to Chicago and Pace suburban bus routes for local and regional connections. Transit is generally considered easier for entering or leaving the city than for navigating within it. The plan's current stage examines network and transit options that could affect how residents reach employment, appointments and other services inside Aurora.

The city's transportation sector accounts for approximately one-third of Aurora's total emissions, with emissions in this area increasing by 2% between 2010 and 2019. Aurora maintains a green fleet policy to procure fuel-efficient or eco-friendly vehicles. The city currently owns 15 electric vehicles, with four more on order and plans to expand the fleet.

Next steps in the planning process

The plan is expected to continue developing network and transit options from the 36 prioritized projects. Residents who rely on local roads, buses or rail for work commutes and service access will be directly affected by any resulting infrastructure or service adjustments. The government says the policy will improve overall movement for all residents moving through the city.

Further analysis in Milestone 3 will determine which projects advance, with decisions expected to shape future spending on roads, transit and related infrastructure. Aurora residents can follow updates through city channels as the plan proceeds from its current milestone.

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