Boston, a thriving metropolitan area of more than 4 million, is served by one of the best and largest transit systems in the country. Beyond Boston, however, service is more limited and provided by 15 Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs).
The Beyond Boston transit study, which was lead by Nelson\Nygaard, was a cooperative effort between MassDOT and the RTAs to identify and address a broad range of ideas that offer potential to improve the planning, organization, and delivery of public transportation service. We conducted a thorough review of the Commonwealth’s transit network from a statewide perspective and analyzed the operation of each RTA to identify ways in which each could improve the efficiency of existing services, and provide new or expanded services to local communities. We also identified improvements to facilities and equipment and steps to ensure the equitable allocation of investments in transportation across the regions of the Commonwealth.
Our work produced a strategic plan consisting of 10 initiatives to improve service and better determine needs, improve efficiency and the use of available funds, and improve collaboration between the state and the RTAs.