10/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/07/2024 08:57
Upcoming Phase 1 improvements include more frequent Route 86, 104, 109, and 110 service and combining Routes 116/117 to a single Frequent Bus Route.
The MBTA today announced that Phase 1 of Bus Network Redesign will launch on Sunday, December 15. The MBTA's Bus Network Redesign is a major initiative of the Better Bus Project aimed at improving bus service reliability, frequency, and connectivity throughout the region. Phase 1 introduces significant service changes to six bus routes serving the communities of Chelsea, Everett, Revere, Malden, Somerville, Cambridge, Allston, Brighton, and East Boston.
"The MBTA is continuing to improve the frequency of travel on its bus routes and the reliability of those trips," said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. "The Bus Network Redesign project has taken a holistic approach in evaluating routes, speaking with customers and community leaders, and then proactively making changes for specific coverage areas. We are pleased the MBTA will move ahead in December with changes to bus routes serving the communities of Chelsea, Everett, Revere, Malden, Somerville, Cambridge, Allston, Brighton, and East Boston."
"Our bus network is a key mode for our transportation system, and as we restore reliable bus service, we continue to seek opportunities to improve service and travel times. The first phase of the redesign launching this December was carefully planned after receiving over 20,000 comments," said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. "I can't thank the public enough for engaging with us throughout the process. Our Operations, Service Planning, and other teams are committed to delivering safe, reliable service to the communities we serve and look to service in the future."
"We are proud to partner with the MBTA and support the new 104 bus route from Malden Center to Logan Airport," said Massport CEO Rich Davey. "Not only is this an additional transit option for passengers, but also for the thousands of airport employees who live in Malden, Everett, and Chelsea. Taking a transit mode to or from Logan helps reduce congestion and the impact on neighboring communities and we will continue to promote the various options."
The following routes will see significant enhancements under Phase 1 effective December 15:
The Phase 1 changes are part of the MBTA's Bus Network Redesign, an initiative developed through extensive community feedback and guided by six core goals:
Over 20,000 comments from community members shaped the redesign, which was approved by the MBTA's Board of Directors in November 2022.
The service changes in Phase 1 represent a 60% increase in service on affected routes, improving reliability and frequency while simplifying transit options for impacted communities. Riders in Chelsea, Everett, Revere, Malden, Somerville, Cambridge, and East Boston will experience more consistent service with buses running every 15 minutes or better all day on several routes.
Frequent Bus Routes operate every 15 minutes or better all day. These routes are central to the new network and will double from 15 to 30 when all phases of Bus Network Redesign are complete, significantly expanding service to previously underserved areas.
The new Frequent Bus Routes will be easy to identify by a clock icon with the number 15 on bus stop signs and maps. This icon indicates that the route is part of the Frequent Bus Network and offers service every 15 minutes or better all day, making it a simple way for riders to recognize routes with more frequency.
As part of the Bus Network Redesign, several capital projects are underway, which will bring major enhancements to bus infrastructure and improve the rider experience in December 2024:
As part of our efforts to improve the bus network and keep riders informed, new, easier-to-read bus stop signs will be installed at over 330 locations starting this fall ahead of the launch of Phase 1 service changes on December 15.
Replacing all of the bus stop signs will take time, so not all stops will be updated overnight. The schedule for what can be expected as new signs are installed and old ones are removed is below:
In addition to the new bus stop signs, updated subway, neighborhood, and bus connection maps are being installed across Phase 1 communities, including within bus shelters.
These updated maps will feature thicker yellow lines highlighting Frequent Bus Routes, a 15-minute clock icon for routes that run every 15 minutes or better all day, and consistent legend and title styles to improve clarity.
The rollout of the updated subway maps has already begun with other maps following soon, and most installations are expected to be completed by Thanksgiving 2024.
New bus schedules and timetables will be available later this fall, providing more details on service changes. Additional phases of the Bus Network Redesign will be rolled out as resources become available with Phase 2 anticipated in early 2025.