BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) —Starting on Aug. 30, the MBTA is adding service to 23 bus routes because of ridership demand.
The MBTA also said the additional service will “allow for physical-distancing in keeping with health and safety protocol guidance” during the coronavirus pandemic.
However, service will be reduced or suspended on other bus routes with low ridership, or ones that are close to other routes with frequent service.
On top of this, CharlieTicket and cash fares are being lowered to match CharlieCard prices. This change will be effective on Sept. 1.
“Bus service in particular has seen our most durable ridership,” MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak said. “We will also be adding service above our previous regular service schedule in communities that have few transit alternatives and which have many essential workers who use the MBTA to get to their jobs.I want to again thank our riders for their patience and for continuing to wear face coverings while using the system. I also want to express my appreciation to our frontline workforce, who work every day to provide essential transit services.”
There will be changes to service on the Blue and Green Lines as well. The MBTA said this is “in response to both COVID-19 ridership and as part of the Lechmere Viaduct/Green Line Extension word, respectively.” Service on other subway lines, the Commuter Rail, ferry, and The RIDE will remain at current levels throughout the fall.
WBZ NewsRadio's Chris Fama (@CFamaWBZ) reports
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App
(Photo: Mario Jarjour/WBZ NewsRadio)