REMINDER: Phase 1 of Bus Network Redesign Launches December 15 to Bring More Frequent Service, Better Routes

This notice serves as a reminder of the upcoming Phase 1 launch previously announced on October 7.

Service Advisories will be installed between November 1 and 15 to alert riders to changes in routes and schedules for the Phase 1 improvements that include more frequent Route 86, 104, 109, and 110 service and combining Routes 116/117 to a single Frequent Bus Route.

The MBTA today reminded riders that Phase 1 of Bus Network Redesign will launch on Sunday, December 15. The MBTA’s Bus Network Redesign is a major initiative of the Better Bus Project aimed at improving bus service reliability, frequency, and connectivity throughout the region. Phase 1 introduces significant service changes to six bus routes serving the communities of Chelsea, Everett, Revere, Malden, Somerville, Cambridge, Allston, Brighton, and East Boston. The Phase 1 changes will increase service by 60% on these routes and establish several Frequent Bus Routes, which operate every 15 minutes or less, from 5 AM to 1 AM Monday through Saturday, and 6 AM to 1 AM on Sunday.

These improvements require some capital changes and new bus stop signage at new bus stops. As replacing all of the signs at bus stops will take time, the MBTA will be installing Service Advisories at 315 affected bus stops to alert riders to changes in routes and schedules. Larger than standard bus stop signs, the Service Advisories also include maps and are available in several languages. They will be placed between November 1 and November 15 to inform riders of upcoming changes.

“Our bus network is a key mode for our transportation system, and as we restore reliable bus service, we continue to seek opportunities to improve service and travel times. The first phase of the redesign launching this December was carefully planned after receiving over 20,000 comments,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “I can’t thank the public enough for engaging with us throughout the process. Our Operations, Service Planning, and other teams are committed to delivering safe, reliable service to the communities we serve and look to service in the future.”

The new, easier-to-read bus stop signs will be installed at over 330 locations ahead of the launch of Phase 1 service changes on December 15. New signs installed before December 15 will be “bagged” or covered and will contain service information. The new bus stop signs will be unbagged in December when the new service begins, and Service Advisories will be removed in January 2025.

Capital projects to support the program include bus stop location changes, new transfer locations, more space for layover areas, and ensuring better and safer stops. This work can include changing berths for bus stops, which are the locations where passengers board or exit the buses. These changes have begun, are scheduled, or will be completed by our City partners.

New bus schedules and timetables will be available later this fall, providing more details on service changes. Additional phases of the Bus Network Redesign will be rolled out as resources become available with Phase 2 anticipated in 2025.