MassDOT awards $5 million to transit authorities for 'innovative' services

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has awarded $5.1 million in additional funding awards for regional transit authorities to implement "best practices and innovative services" to benefit riders, department officials announced yesterday.

Award winners were chosen based on factors such as whether projects will increase ridership, demonstrate innovation, serve a priority population, be financially sustainable, and provide cost savings or operational efficiencies.

The funds include $4 million in operating funding allocated in the fiscal-year 2019 state budget, as well as an additional $1.1 million in capital funding from MassDOT.

"We look forward to the award winners carrying out these projects which will provide benefits such as more frequent service on some routes, pilot programs, and improved customer experience and outreach," said Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack in a press release.

The award recipients will be required to enter a memorandum of understanding with MassDOT to address project goals.

Rail-related awards included:
• $350,000 to the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority to enhance first-and-last-mile services using a commuter app and marketing at commuter-rail stations; and
• $178,750 to the Brockton Area Transit Authority to expand service to Stoughton by increasing direct service into the downtown, connecting two different commuter-rail lines and integrating an underserved business district.