MBTA extends two commuter rail discounts into the fall, lowers some bus and subway costs
The MBTA and Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey are announcing changes to make public transportation more affordable this fall.
The T is extending two popular commuter rail summer programs and launching three new pilot programs. Some of the changes could save frequent MBTA riders hundreds of dollars over the next few months.
Monthly commuter rail passes will continue to be 50 percent off for September, October and November.
And all monthly pass holders can continue bringing a companion with them for just $1 each way on weekends.
"How do we get more people using public transit? One way you do that is you make it more affordable," Healey said a a news conference Tuesday.
The MBTA also has three new programs this fall.
One offers free rides for any Massachusetts resident age 75 or older who no longer drives.
Express buses will no longer cost more, starting on September 1. Riders will now pay just $1.70 for a full one-way trip. It does not apply to the Silver Line.
The T is also creating a two-hour unlimited transfer window between services on the subway, bus or ferry. This means you could take a subway to a bus and then take that same route back in less than two hours and only pay one fare. Just be sure you use the same form of payment.
MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng said June had the highest ridership since before the pandemic. During that time, the T was operating on extended hours with the World Cup in town. Eng was asked Tuesday if there's a chance it could continue in the future.
"I need to make sure the workforce has the ability to continue to do the maintenance, do the inspections, because we do not want to go back to where we were just four years ago," Eng said.
The MBTA's revenue from fares for the 2025-2026 fiscal year that just ended exceeded projections, authorities said. Some of that money is being used for these discounts and promotions.
