Governor Maura Healey announced $30 million in state funding will be put towards free transit
by: Kayleigh Thomas
Posted: Oct 24, 2024 / 06:22 PM EDT
GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Free Bus rides are coming to people in our region. Governor of Massachusetts, Maura Healey announced a $30 million program to either extend or create free public transportation in 13 regional transit authorities statewide starting in November.
Healey was in Greenfield Thursday to talk about the funding.
She said it will help connect all rural communities to economic opportunities and provide seamless travel. This means providing people better access to schools, jobs, groceries, or doctor appointments.
According to Governor Healey, transit must be equitable in order to have a full impact. “Service that people can actually depend on, count on. That means students, families, seniors with lower incomes, people with disabilities, and residents who aren’t connected to urban centers. I grew up in a rural community of 1700 people. You need to make sure that transit is connecting to people all across the state,” said Governor Healey.
This initiative is part of the 2025 budget, which also authorizes $250 million for the Commonwealth Transportation Fund, unlocking over $1 billion for critical transportation projects, including MBTA track upgrades.
Free fares start November 1st and last until at least June of next year.