Almost three-quarters of current and former riders report feeling unsafe while using MBTA services.
A poll conducted by the Boston Herald shows that 70 percent of current and former users of Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) public transit services express having felt unsafe while using the system.
According to an article by Benjamin Cortez in Hoodline, “only 45% of current and former riders believe that the MBTA will improve in 10 years, and 16% predict a worse future for the system’s service.”
This pessimistic view reflects the system’s recent setbacks, such as track maintenance safety and service cuts, as ridership continues to lag below pre-pandemic levels. Cortez notes, “While some factors are beyond the MBTA's control, two crucial elements could potentially entice more riders back: free rides and more reliable service. More than half of the respondents claim that these changes would make them more inclined to use the system in the future.”
Opinion: Funding The T Should Be a Massachusetts State Priority
With ridership revenue still lagging and fatal incidents plaguing the Boston-area transit agency, one writer argues that state lawmakers must step in to fund upgrades for the aging system.
Transit Crime Down in NYC, Minneapolis
The two cities launched targeted efforts to improve security and offer supportive services to transit users.
Twin Cities Transit Agency Launches Safety Initiatives
The agency is pairing with nonprofit partners to provide on-site services and resources to riders and boosting fare enforcement without police involvement.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Santa Clarita
Ascent Environmental
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service