Governor Maura Healey has announced a series of new MBTA fare initiatives aimed at making public transportation more affordable, flexible, and easier to use. The plan includes three new fare pilot programs launching this fall, along with an extension of two popular Commuter Rail savings programs through November 2026.
To promote the announcement, Governor Healey greeted commuters at the Belmont Commuter Rail station before riding the train into Boston.
New MBTA Fare Pilots Starting This Fall
Beginning September 1, the MBTA will introduce two six-month pilot programs, with a third program for seniors launching later this fall.
Unlimited Transfers Within Two Hours
Riders will be able to make virtually unlimited transfers between buses, subways, and ferries during a two-hour period while paying only the highest fare charged during that window. The same payment method must be used throughout the trip for transfers to apply.
The new policy replaces the current transfer rules, making it easier for riders to complete errands or multiple stops without paying additional fares.
Lower Fares on Express Buses
The MBTA will eliminate higher express bus fares on seven routes, reducing the cost to the standard local bus fare:
- Current express fare: $4.25 (full fare) / $2.10 (reduced)
- New fare: $1.70 (full fare) / $0.85 (reduced)
Officials estimate regular express bus riders could save nearly $500 during the six-month pilot. The Silver Line SL1, SL2, SL3, and SLW routes are not included.
Free MBTA Travel for Eligible Seniors
In partnership with the Registry of Motor Vehicles, Massachusetts residents 75 and older who no longer hold a driver’s license will be eligible for free travel across MBTA buses, subways, ferries, and Commuter Rail. The launch date will be announced later this fall.
Commuter Rail Savings Extended Through November
Following the success of this summer’s promotions, the Healey administration is extending two popular Commuter Rail discounts through November 2026:
- 50% off monthly Commuter Rail passes for September, October, and November.
- $1 Weekend Companion Fare, allowing monthly pass holders to bring one companion for just $1 each way on weekends.
Free Fridays End in August
The popular Free Summer Fridays promotion will continue through Friday, August 28, allowing riders to travel free on all regular MBTA Commuter Rail lines. The program will end as scheduled before the fall season due to expected increases in ridership.
The MBTA will also continue expanded weekend travel benefits for monthly pass holders through the end of August.
Strong Summer Ridership
The Summer Savings program has produced strong results:
- Friday Commuter Rail ridership increased by approximately 50% in June compared with May.
- Riders have taken more than 6,200 companion trips during the first six weekends of the program.
State officials say major events such as the FIFA World Cup and Sail Boston also contributed to increased ridership and revenue, helping build momentum for additional affordability initiatives throughout the year.
More information about the new fare pilots is available at mbta.com.
