Millis board to pursue MetroWest RTA membership to add dial‑a‑ride service

The Millis Select Board voted to place on a future agenda a proposal to join the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority to provide on‑demand transportation for residents.

Jim N., the MetroWest RTA administrator, told the board the authority offers a range of services — from large fixed‑route systems to demand‑response programs and microtransit. “The dialeride program is probably the most appropriate type of public transportation for Millis,” he said, adding that the town’s current MBTA assessment (about $57,000 this year, projected $59,000 next year) can be reallocated to cover the local share for dial‑a‑ride without additional cost to taxpayers.

Ann Marie, director of the Council on Aging, and Town Planner Bob Weiss supported exploring the option, citing needs among older and mobility‑limited residents. “This would complement what the senior center already provides,” Ann Marie said, noting the program can be run so it does not exceed the local assessment if the town wishes.

N. described operational details: dial‑a‑ride typically allows trips within a defined service area and is scheduled by reservation; the service window for similar programs typically runs weekdays from about 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. He said microtransit (an app‑based, Uber‑like model) can be offered but is costlier, with an estimated all‑in cost of $250,000–$300,000 a year and a local assessment share approaching $80,000–$100,000.

Board members asked about the town’s long history of paying MBTA/assessment fees and whether Millis could have sought service earlier. One member asked why the option had not been pursued sooner; Jim N. said previous decisions were driven by concern that adding service could raise costs and that membership does not automatically commence service — communities can join and delay launching specific services until they are ready.

Next steps: staff will prepare materials and place a formal membership vote on a forthcoming Select Board agenda. If Millis votes to join, the RTA’s advisory board would then consider acceptance at its next reasonable meeting; services would begin only when the town is ready and the parties agree on specific operations and funding allocations.

The Select Board did not set a timeline for service launch during the meeting, but members and staff indicated they expect follow‑up discussions and a vote at a subsequent meeting.