Budget Amendment ID: FY2025-S4-887-R1

Redraft TRP 887

Fare free buses

Ms. Jehlen, Messrs. Lewis, Keenan and Gomez, Ms. Miranda, Mr. Payano and Ms. Edwards moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2E, in item 1595-6369, by adding the following words:-  "; provided further, that the authority shall conduct a feasibility study of implementing year-round fare free bus pilot programs including, but not limited to, in areas outside of the city of Boston; provided further, that the authority shall submit a proposed design for establishing said programs, including methods for data collection; provided further, that the authority may establish evaluative criteria for potential route selection including, but not limited to: (a) whether a municipality has identified a route for a fare free pilot program, (b) opportunities for increased ridership; (c) increased service accessibility to low-income individuals; (d) opportunities for increased reliability of on-time performance due to dual-door boarding; (e) potential cost savings arising from elimination of contracted farebox equipment and enforcement personnel; (f) opportunities to reduce or eliminate rider and driver altercations; and (g) geographic equity; provided further, that the authority, in developing the study and report, shall consult with community advocacy organizations including, but not limited to, LivableStreets Alliance and Transportation for Massachusetts; provided further, that not later than March 1, 2025, the authority shall submit a report to the joint committee on transportation and the house and senate committees on ways and means detailing findings related to the feasibility of said programs”.