Photo: Jay Willett/WBZ NewsRadio
MALDEN, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — The MBTA launched a fare reduction program on Wednesday, expanding access to reduced fares for income eligible riders.
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According to the MBTA, the new program provides riders who are aged 18-64 and have low income with reduced one-way fares of approximately 50% off on all MBTA buses, subway, Commuter Rail, and paratransit (The RIDE) travel.
MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng said that affordable public transportation is not just a lifeline for the community but a fundamental right.
“That’s why we’re introducing this new fare program, designed to address this challenge and make transit more affordable and accessible to all of those who need it,” said Eng.
Some riders are very happy about this new program.
“I will be one of the first people in line to apply in person!’” one rider exclaimed.
Governor Healey calls the initiative an important investment for the people in the Commonwealth.
“[This program] means that more people are going to be able to get to work, get to their doctors' appointments, get to school, [and] get to where they need to be,” Healey said.
WBZ NewsRadio also spoke with Sharon Scott Chandler with the Action for Boston Community Development, which is helping people sign up for the program.
“It’s reducing financial burden, not just for people commuting to work, but to getting to doctor’s appointments, taking kids to childcare, going to the grocery store,” Chandler said.
Fares will be reduced by 50% for eligible riders throughout the entire MBTA system.
More information on the program and a link to apply can found here.
WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas (@JamesRojasMMJ) reports.
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