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MBTA to launch bus network redesign on Dec. 15, adding four frequent 15‑minute routes
Summary
MBTA officials said Phase One of the Bus Network Redesign will go into effect Dec. 15, adding four frequent 15‑minute routes (104, 109, 110, 116), increasing total bus service about 60% versus a 2019 baseline and rolling out new ADA‑compliant signage and maps across affected corridors.
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority will put Phase One of its Bus Network Redesign into service on Dec. 15, MBTA staff told the Riders’ Transportation Access Group on Nov. 21. The agency said it will add four frequent routes — the 104, 109, 110 and 116 — scheduled to run every 15 minutes or better, seven days a week, and increase total bus service roughly 60 percent compared with 2019 levels.
Ed Luna, director of Bus Network Redesign, said the changes aim to improve reach, connections and infrastructure needed for reliable, accessible service. “We are increasing a total service by 60% from a baseline in 2019 to what we’ll see starting Dec. 15,” Luna said. He highlighted new connections — including a direct link from Malden to Airport Station on Route 104 and expanded connections in Chelsea, Revere and Somerville — that staff say will reduce transfer times and improve access to rail lines.
The redesign also includes a systemwide rollout of updated signage and maps intended to meet ADA legibility standards. Agency slides shown to R‑TAG noted legacy signs used roughly one‑inch font and failed to meet the two‑inch font guideline the MBTA adopted; the new double‑sided signs use larger type, add a 15‑minute “frequent route” icon and a legend explaining the symbol. The MBTA plans to replace maps in about 73 bus shelters along affected corridors and update over 600 vehicles and station maps so riders see the changes on the day of launch.
Other operational improvements discussed include prioritized snow removal on frequent routes, added layover capacity for buses, tactile pads and cleared bus landings to improve transfers for riders with mobility needs, and a three‑dimensional neighborhood map design to aid wayfinding at stations.
MBTA staff said outreach will be multi‑channel: flyers handed out at affected stops, neighborhood tabling, audio and visual announcements in vehicles and stations, email and T‑alerts for subscribers, and targeted materials in multiple languages. The agency also plans staff deployment at key stops during the week of launch to assist riders on day one.
The MBTA called the redesign an iterative process informed by tens of thousands of public comments and rider testing; staff said they will monitor service and make adjustments as needed. The agency asked riders with questions to consult MBTA.com or sign up for service alerts. The redesign goes into effect Dec. 15 and will be monitored closely by operations teams.
