BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The MBTA is announcing more changes to its commuter rail service that are expected to take effect in the spring.
These come amid continued low ridership during the pandemic, and the public transit system said early estimates indicate that the adjustments could save as much as $30 million per year.
Changes include a dozen fewer trains deployed during traditional rush hours, and more frequency during other times of the day.
Additionally, most lines will run an inbound and outbound train once per hour over the course of the day. During the weekend, all lines will continue to service past 9 p.m.
The new schedule is expected to be released in March and take effect in early April. Commuter rail operators said they are pleased to help the MBTA strike a balance between the need for greater cost efficiency while still providing an appealing service for potential riders.
However the Transit Is Essential Coalition is opposing the service cuts, as they say adjustments should advance convenience, affordability and equity, rather than shrinking the system and it's offerings.
Other transit advocacy groups and local lawmakers have consistently pushed back against service cuts in the past few months, citing the amount of federal aid the service has received throughout the pandemic to help keep it afloat.
WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas (@JamesRojasWBZ) reports.
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Written by Rachel Armany
(Photo: Getty Images)