MBTA increases operations, implements Ride Safer campaign

Starting Monday as part of Phase 2, Step 2, the T, buses and commuter rail will run more frequently, while ferry service will resume on weekdays.

The MBTA had been running at a reduced schedule as ridership decreased during the past few months after many businesses were shut down because of coronavirus.

Regular weekday service will begin operating on the Blue Line, while increased weekday service will operate on the Red, Orange, Green and Mattapan Lines. Service will increase for nearly 60 bus routes.

Also on Monday, there will be eight additional weekday trips on the Fairmount Commuter Rail Line – four inbound leaving Readville Station and four outbound leaving South Station -- as part of the MBTA’s Fairmount Line Weekday Service Pilot.

Customers can pay fares with CharlieCards on Zone 1A stations along that line. After the CharlieCard is tapped at a platform validator, the validator will print a paper proof-of-payment for riders to show when on board the train.

Fairmount Line riders who pay with a CharlieCard can also transfer for free within two hours of their first tap to local buses, the Silver Line, and the Red Line at South Station.

For riders on nine bus routes, the MBTA has introduced a real-time bus crowding information tool for Routes 1, 15, 16, 22, 23, 31, 32, 109 and 110. Riders can find real-time information on digital signs and within the MBTA Transit app, which lets them know whether one of these nine bus routes is crowded, somewhat crowded or not crowded.

The MBTA said it will closely monitor passenger rider levels and will still require riders to wear face masks and social distance while on board trains and buses.

The MBTA is also implementing its Ride Safer campaign, which has three components.

1. Providing face coverings to riders in need at key stations during peak travel times for two weeks

2. A station messaging effort including signage and messaging to promote the importance of keeping a safe distance and wearing face coverings while on the T

3. A new Ride Safer website to showcase the T’s efforts to clean and disinfect stations and vehicles

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