Today, the MBTA released a revised bus network map incorporating changes in response to rider and operator comments. The revised map includes shortening routes that operators identified to be too long for tenable work conditions; re-routing buses to address geographical challenges like hills or street infrastructure; and improving access to key resources like hospitals, grocery stores, and senior centers.
In May our office shared about the MBTA’s necessary, but politically perilous exercise of reimagining the entire bus network through the Bus Network Redesign project. The initial draft map release in May was followed by several months of public meetings and community surveys, resulting in over 20,000 comments from riders and operators. It is clear from this newly revised map that the MBTA is responding to the feedback.
While the quantitative data (numbers on ridership and travel times) is essential to designing a sustainable bus network, the MBTA is also demonstrating a value for qualitative data (rider experience and operator insight). The information shared by all those who engage in this public process is a part of designing a network that meets community needs. We are grateful for all the engagement in this process from constituents across the district. We welcome, and encourage, your continued feedback.
The MBTA will host a virtual public meeting on November 2, 2022 at 6 PM to present and answer questions about the revised map. You can also share your thoughts directly with the MBTA through the Bus network Redesign Feedback Form.
The Bus Network Redesign team will present this revised map to the MBTA Board for approval on November 17. Approval of the map allows the MBTA to move toward implementation but it is anticipated that routes, stop locations and other adjustments will continue to evolve throughout the 5-year implementation timeline. More details on when route changes will occur are expected in Summer 2023.