A proposal by on demand bus and shuttle company Bridj would fill a gap in late night service in the Boston area.
"A private transit company that already shuttles people around Greater Boston during the daytime has proposed to do the same at night, in a partnership with the MBTA to provide a late-night transportation option that workers, employers and transit advocates have clamored for," reports Colin A. Young.
The private transit company is Bridj, which has made news on Planetizen since 2014, when it emerged as the first tech-enabled "pop-up" bus service. The proposal would allow Bridj to offer "on demand late-night buses to move people around the city after the T's rail and traditional bus lines shut down."
The MBTA's Fiscal and Management Control Board considered the proposal this week, as an initial step in the process to implement the proposal.
MBTA Acting General Manager Brian Shortsleeve told State House News Service that Bridj has proposed a "public utility model" for its late-night service, and said the T would likely start with a pilot program before going all-in.
The MBTA shut down late-night service on the T in March 2016. It was the second time in 15 years that the MBTA had abandoned late night service.
FULL STORY: MBTA in talks with private company for late-night city transit
Late-Night Transit Going Out of Service in Boston
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority board voted to shut down late night transit service on the T this week, finding that ridership did not justify the cost of the long operation hours.
Explaining the Limitations of Travel Time Comparisons
Jarrett Walker details the nuances of travel time comparisons, following on a recent Boston Magazine article comparing MBTA transit service to the new Bridj private bus service.
Late-Night Subway Service is New Weapon in Fight to Attract Young Talent
A pilot project to extend the operating hours of Boston's subway system until 3 a.m. on weekends is being celebrated by riders, businesses leaders and public officials as a crucial element in maintaining a vibrant and attractive city.
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.
Ascent Environmental
Borough of Carlisle
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