The last two emissions testing facilities in Chicago closed Tuesday.
The IEPA said the facilities were closed because it has a new vendor and a much better deal. The price per test will drop from almost $7 to less than $3, according to the agency. In a statement, the IEPA said “in addition to more efficient and less expensive tests, the new contract will save Illinois taxpayers at least $11 million each year, and nearly $100 million over the life of the contract.”
But some drivers weren’t aware of the agency mandated move—and say they don’t much care for it.
“I didn’t know it would be closed,” said motorist Michael Weisbluth, who showed up Tuesday to the now shuttered facility at 1850 W. Webster Avenue. “The other location is up in Skokie and it’s very hard to find.”
Wait times at the Skokie emissions facility, which is now the closest place for North Side residents to get their cars tested, were minimal Tuesday.
For limo company owners like Philomena Miles, driving to the suburbs for a test is a major inconvenience.
“I am going to have to go all the way to Bedford Park—we’re talking about 5300 West on 70th Street,” Miles, who owns Star-Elite Limousine Service, said. “What do you think about that? I am pretty mad about it, I am angry about it.”
