Transportation

State Awards Watertown TMA Grant to Analyze Data, Develop New Mobility Alternatives

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The Watertown Transportation Management Association (TMA) received a grant of $159,469   from the Mass Department of Transportation to analyze data on travel patterns and use findings to inform development of new mobility alternatives, all in an attempt to reduce single occupancy vehicle commuting.  See details about the program provided by MassDOT, below. The Healey-Driscoll Administration is announcing the awarding of $3 million in funding for 13 Transportation Management Associations (TMAs), one TMA membership association, and one consulting firm, to support 19 projects which encourage transportation alternatives and expand transportation options in communities across Massachusetts. Awards include funding to operate and publicize shuttles, improve bus stop infrastructure, expand ferry service, and more. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s (MassDOT) TMA Grant Program first launched in Fiscal Year 2025 and is now in its second year.  The goals of this grant program are to reduce single occupancy vehicle (SOV) travel, reduce emissions, encourage mode shift, and expand mobility.  

“Our investments in community transportation are about connecting people to jobs, schools, and services today and into the future,” said Transportation Secretary & CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “The projects supported through the TMA Program are vital to building a more reliable, resilient, and accessible transportation network.

Transportation

MBTA Will Start Fare Checks, Warnings & Fines in September

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Charlie BreitroseAn MBTA Bus on Mt. Auburn Street. The following information was provided by MassDOT:

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) announced that fare checks as the part of its Fare Engagement Program will soon begin within the subway system. Beginning September 8, Fare Engagement Representatives will begin issuing formal warnings and citations to riders who have not tapped at a fare gate or farebox. More information is available at mbta.com/FareCheck.  

“Our riders deserve a safe and reliable mass transportation system that is available for them when they need it.

Transportation

New Schedule for the Watertown Connector Shuttle Between Pleasant St. & Harvard Sq.

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A Watertown Connector shuttle. (Courtesy of the Watertown TMA)

Watertown’s shuttle along Pleasant Street announced a new schedule. See more details in the information from the Watertown TMA below. The Watertown Connector (WATConnector) is a convenient, eco-friendly electric shuttle providing weekday service along Pleasant Street, with stops at Watertown Yards and Harvard Square during peak morning and evening commute hours. This eco-friendly service is free for employees and residents of participating corporate and residential partners (see list below), and available to the public for just $1 per ride each way, $10 minimum purchase to the public.

Transportation

MBTA Offering Free Fares on Night of Fourth of July

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The following announcement was provided by the MBTA:

The MBTA announced that fares will again be free this year on bus, subway, ferry, Commuter Rail, and the RIDE on Friday, July 4, 2025, after 8:30 PM. Boston is regularly predicted to host over a million visitors for the July 4 holiday. To accommodate increased ridership, the MBTA is encouraging travelers to plan their commute in advance and reminding riders of its holiday service schedules. The public is encouraged to take public transportation to and from the 2025 Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular and to other holiday events. The MBTA’s July 4 service schedules continue to be available at mbta.com/holidays.  

“Public transportation in Massachusetts keeps growing because of the bold investments of the Healey-Driscoll Administration, the partnership of local leaders, and the tireless work of our transit teams,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt.

Around Town

More Drainage Work on Mt. Auburn Street This Week

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Construction crews will continue installation on drainage on Mt. Auburn Street during the week of June 16. See more information in the announcement from the City of Watertown below. Beginning Monday, June 16, 2025, Newport Construction will resume drainage installation on Mount Auburn Street between Kimball Road and Lloyd Road. Traffic and Sidewalk Impacts

During this work, you can expect temporary lane shifts and possibly lane closures, but one travel lane in each direction will remain on Mount Auburn Street.

Business

MBTA General Manager Speaking at Charles River Chamber Event

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Charlie BreitroseAn MBTA 71 bus. The Charles River Chamber’s Annual Transportation Forum will feature MBTA General Manager Phil Eng. See details provided by the Chamber. Tbe event will be on Tuesday, June 17, 12:30 p.m., program begins at 1 p.m. at Tripadvisor HQ, 400 1st Ave, Needham. Coffee and snacks will be provided.

Around Town

Drainage Installation Work Planned This Week at 2 Intersections on Mt. Auburn St.

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During the week of June 9-13 the Mt. Auburn Street roadwork will include installation of drainage on a couple of intersections. See details in the announcement provided by the City of Watertown. Beginning Monday, June 9, 2025, Newport Construction will resume drainage installation on Mount Auburn Street at the intersections with Kimball Road and Elton Avenue. Traffic and Sidewalk Impacts

During this work, you can expect temporary lane shifts and possibly lane closures, but one travel lane in each direction will remain on Mount Auburn Street.

Around Town

Lane Closures on North Beacon Street Start This Week

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The following announcement was provided the Department of Conservation and Recreation:

DCR Traffic Advisory: North Beacon Street in Watertown

WHAT: On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from Tuesday, June 3, 2025, through Friday, June 6, 2025, from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) will close lanes along North Beacon Street from Greenough Boulevard to Charles River Road in the City of Watertown from to accommodate paving and line striping work. Traffic patterns will be clearly marked, and a police detail will be on site.    

WHERE: North Beacon Street from Greenough Boulevard to Charles River Road in the City of Watertown 

WHEN: Tuesday, May 27, 2025, 5 a.m. – 5 p.m. and  Tuesday, June 3, 2025 – Friday, June 6, 2025, 7 p.m. – 5 a.m.