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Westborough reports early success with WRTA partnership for senior transportation
Summary
After joining the WRTA mobility-management model July 1, Westborough reported high on-time pickup rates and hundreds of rides in the first two months; town staff said the program expands out‑of‑town options and will be monitored for equity and demand.
Westborough presented early-month data from its July 1 start with the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) mobility-management model and reported hundreds of rides and high on-time pickup rates.
Senior and Social Services Director Kendra said July reported 384 rides with 93.75% of pickups early or on time; 253 rides were Westborough-to-Westborough, 87 rides were to work, 49 rides went to the senior center and 68 were for medical appointments. In August, Kendra said, there were 341 rides and on-time pickup rose to 95.8%. She added that 84 rides went to non-Westborough residents in July and 48 in August but staff expect out-of-town usage to drop as resident demand fills slots.
Kendra described the cost structure as a contractual arrangement that reimburses driver time, gas, and fringe benefits; she estimated the town contract at roughly $90,000 and said the WRTA cost-allocation process spreads net costs across participating communities. Nick Burnham, WRTA director of operations and planning, explained the shared-dispatch model and how ridership and costs are allocated annually. Kendra said the program allows door-to-door service at no cost for residents 60+ and adults with disabilities who meet certification requirements, and that the WRTA provides cab backup when buses are not available.
Staff plan a user survey in March 2026 to collect feedback before voting on any contract renewal. The board asked for ongoing metrics: unique users over time, trip destinations, and the effect on the town-owned senior buses; staff agreed to provide continuing monthly reports to the board.
