MBTA extending evening service, boosts bus frequency on key routes

The MBTA will extend evening subway service by nearly an hour starting August 24, enhancing accessibility on all lines and select bus routes. The initiative includes free rides on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p. m. until the end of service on designated weekends through early October. General Manager Phil Eng stated that the agency's focus is on providing a public service that meets the needs of its riders.

Service frequency will improve for the Red and Orange Lines, with weekday trips increasing by 3% and 9%, respectively. Additionally, several bus routes will experience service boosts of 10-20%, informed by feedback from over 20,000 stakeholders. This initiative aims to benefit communities in areas like Mattapan and Dorchester, ensuring better connectivity. The MBTA's approach marks a departure from past pilot programs, with a commitment to sustained improvements. Local officials seek to measure success based on rider reliance rather than sheer numbers.