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New MBTA Pilot Programs Aim to Cut Costs for Riders This Fall
The MBTA will test unlimited transfers, cut express bus premiums and keep Commuter Rail discounts after Fridays ridership rose 50%, officials said.
- On Tuesday, July 28, 2026, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng announced new fare pilot programs and extended Commuter Rail discounts through November to increase public transit affordability.
- Following a 50% increase in Friday Commuter Rail ridership in June compared to May, riders took more than 6,200 companion trips, prompting officials to extend the popular summer savings programs.
- Starting September 1, the MBTA will launch three pilots: reducing express bus fares to $1.70, creating a two-hour "unlimited" transfer window, and offering free fares to Massachusetts residents aged 75 and older.
- These initiatives aim to "put money back in people's pockets," Healey said, potentially saving frequent Commuter Rail riders up to $639 while eliminating the current $4.25 express bus fare.
- Phil Eng stated these time-limited pilots allow the MBTA to evaluate rider demand and determine whether the initiatives should continue long-term as the agency improves service reliability.
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21 Articles
How new MBTA pilot programs aim to save riders money
“Every day, we're looking for new ways to lower costs and make it easier for people to choose public transportation,” Gov. Maura Healey said in a press release. The post How new MBTA pilot programs aim to save riders money appeared first on Boston.com.
·Boston, United States
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MBTA touts new pilot programs to reduce rider costs
BOSTON — Commuter rail users will get another three months of discounted passes under a raft of MBTA changes announced Tuesday, which include reduced bus fares and a new pilot program providing free public transportation to seniors who hang up…
·Gloucester, United States
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MBTA announces continuation of summer and new savings for Commuter Rail, subway, buses
The MBTA announced a new range of affordability initiatives for subway and bus riders this fall, along with discounts on the Commuter Rail continued from pilot programs over the summer.
·Braintree, United States
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Mass. announces 3 pilots to cut T fares and extends summer discounts
·Arlington, United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources21
Leaning Left5Leaning Right1Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution54% Center
Bias Distribution
- 54% of the sources are Center
54% Center
L 38%
C 54%
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