The Cost of a Trip between Chicago, Illinois and Park Ridge, Illinois
Introduction
Planning a trip between Chicago, Illinois and Park Ridge, Illinois? One of the most important factors to consider is the cost of transportation, mainly fuel expenses. With fluctuating gas prices, it's crucial to calculate the cost of your journey in order to better manage your budget. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between these two destinations, highlighting the distance and cost of each option, and ultimately recommend the best route based on current gas prices.
Route Options
Route 1: Via I-90 W
The first route option is to take I-90 W, a direct option that involves traveling westbound from downtown Chicago. The distance between Chicago and Park Ridge is approximately 15 miles, and this route generally takes around 25 minutes without traffic. Considering the average fuel consumption of a car traveling on the highway, which is around 27 miles per gallon (mpg), let's calculate the estimated cost of this route based on the current gas prices.
As of [current_date], the average gas price in Illinois is $2.89 per gallon[1]. With the distance of 15 miles, we can divide this by the car's fuel efficiency (27 mpg) to determine the amount of gas needed for the trip. Hence, the cost of fuel for this specific route can be calculated as follows:
Cost = (Distance / Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price
Substituting the values:
Cost = (15 / 27) * 2.89
After performing the calculation, the estimated cost of fuel for this route would be approximately $1.61.
Route 2: Via Lincoln Avenue
Another alternative is to take Lincoln Avenue, which provides a more scenic route between Chicago and Park Ridge. The distance via this route is slightly longer, at around 17 miles, and the journey generally takes about 30 minutes excluding traffic. The gas consumption for this route would also be affected by the city streets, resulting in a slightly lower fuel efficiency. Let's calculate the estimated cost of this route based on the same gas prices.
Considering the average city fuel consumption rate of a car, which is around 23 mpg, we will perform the same calculation:
Cost = (Distance / Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price
Substituting the values:
Cost = (17 / 23) * 2.89
Thus, the estimated cost of fuel for this route would be approximately $2.14.
Route 3: Via I-190 W and Cumberland Avenue
Lastly, we have a route option that involves taking I-190 W and Cumberland Avenue. This route provides a middle ground in terms of distance and time. It spans approximately 16 miles and typically takes around 28 minutes, excluding traffic. As it includes both highway and city driving, the fuel efficiency will be slightly lower compared to the first route option but higher compared to the second. Let's calculate the estimated cost of fuel for this route.
Considering a fuel efficiency rate of 25 mpg for a combination of highway and city driving, we can perform the same calculation once again:
Cost = (Distance / Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price
Substituting the values:
Cost = (16 / 25) * 2.89
Thus, the estimated cost of fuel for this route would be approximately $1.84.
Recommendation
After evaluating the three different route options and calculating their fuel costs, it is clear that Route 1, via I-90 W, is the most cost-effective choice. Not only is it the shortest route in terms of distance but it also offers a relatively low cost of fuel, with an estimated expense of approximately $1.61. Although the difference in fuel costs between the routes may seem minimal, it can add up over time, especially for those who frequently commute between Chicago and Park Ridge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Chicago, Illinois and Park Ridge, Illinois greatly depends on the route chosen and the current gas prices. By carefully considering the distance, time, and cost of fuel for each route option, we can make an informed decision. Based on the evaluation, Route 1 via I-90 W appears to be the best option, with an estimated fuel cost of $1.61. However, it's important to remember that these costs are subject to change with fluctuating gas prices. Regardless of the route chosen, the journey typically takes around 25 minutes, allowing for a quick and convenient commute between these two locations.