Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority launches Bus Network Redesign map

© Shutterstock

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) recently launched a draft network map as part of its Bus Network Redesign.

The redesign would modify MBTA’s bus network to adapt to new employment districts, shifting demographics, and increased traffic in the Greater Boston area.

The Bus Network Redesign team developed a plan that creates more all-day service, increases service in busy neighborhoods, and makes additional connections.

The plan would increase bus service by 25 percent overall and increase weekend service by 70 percent.

A proposed high-frequency service would consist of trips 15 minutes or less between buses and would run all day, seven days a week. This service is expected to attract 275,000 more residents to MBTA, including an estimated more than 100,000 residents of color and 40,000 low-income households who would gain access to high-frequency service.

The plan would extend fast and frequent service for more than 58,000 residents to Kendall Square, more than 50,000 to Back Bay, more than 180,000 to the South Boston Waterfront, and more than 200,000 to the Longwood Medical Area.

The design team will hold open houses through July at MBTA stations and community meetings to seek public comment on the plan. Comments will be reviewed and incorporated into the final plan.