The MBTA announced three pilot programs that will cut the rate of Express buses, provided unlimited transfers, and provide free rides for riders over age 75. See more details in the announcement sent out by the City of Watertown, below.
The MBTA is launching three new fare pilot programs in September 2026, and all of them can benefit Watertown residents. These include:
Express Bus Fares: Currently $4.25, this pilot will bring express bus fares down to local buses: rates of $1.70. This includes Watertown’s 504 Express Bus to Downtown Boston. Discounted bus fares will be the same price as the reduced local bus fares. See all bus fares.
“Unlimited” Two-hour Transfer Window: Transfer between bus, subway, and ferry within 2 hours of your first ride, and pay only the highest fare of any individual trip leg. Previously, only 2 transfers were free. More information is available on the MBTA website.
Car-Free Seniors: Riders 75+ who do not have a driver’s license will now be eligible for free travel across all MBTA bus, subway, Commuter Rail & ferry. In partnership with the RMV, this pilot aims to give our elders more dignity, mobility, and travel options.
The more people who utilize these pilots, the more of a case can be built for expanding them into full programs, so we encourage you to hop aboard!