Bill > H3632

This bill aims to promote commuter rail ridership by directing the General Manager of the Metropolitan Boston Transit Agency (MBTA) to create a new fare structure designed to attract more riders. The proposed fare structure includes several key elements: a flat $10 all-inclusive weekday fare (similar to the existing weekend/holiday rate), ensuring one-way fares do not exceed three times the regular subway fare, creating monthly passes tailored for hybrid workers who commute fewer than five days per week, offering discounts for purchasing multiple rides in advance (like 10- or 12-ride packages), reducing the number of commuter rail zones to simplify pricing, and offsetting reduced ticket prices by increasing parking rates. The bill requires the MBTA General Manager to submit recommendations to the Governor and Legislature within 12 months, including estimated ridership impacts, and to implement pilot programs within 24 months to test these fare strategies. The overall goal is to make commuter rail more affordable and attractive to potential riders, especially those in transit-oriented areas, by creating a more flexible and cost-effective fare system.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3632