Watertown News (https://www.watertownmanews.com/tag/mbta/)
A 71 bus, one of the routes that will run more often beginning in December 2025. Two bus lines in Watertown will have upgraded service beginning Dec. 14, 2025, the MBTA announced. The 71 and 73 buses are scheduled to run every 15 minutes. See more in the following announcement from the MBTA.
An MBTA Bus at the Watertown Yard. By Mark Pickering
MBTA service in Watertown has been in decline for years – even as neighboring communities have seen theirs maintained or even improved. Watertown has the worst MBTA service of any community bordering it and all of Boston’s neighborhoods. One of the latest blows is the elimination of the so-called “Express” bus to South Station. The result: It took me and hour and a half to get to my former Boston Herald offices in the Seaport.
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.
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.
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.
Traffic congestion is expected in coming weeks due to construction at the Mass Pike/I-95 interchange over the MBTA Commuter Rail tracks, the Mass Department of Transportation (MassDOT) announced. Lane closures will take place from May 30-June 2 and June 20-23. See more information provided by MassDOT, below. Rapid weekend construction of The Newton Weston Bridge Replacement Project on I-90 EB/WB at the I-95 interchange over the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority – MBTA bridge will impact your travel plans on May 30- June 2, and June 20-23. Those traveling in the Boston, Worcester, and the Framingham area should expect one lane of travel on I-90 EB/WB and MAJOR regional travel impacts on the roadway.
The following announcement was provided by the MBTA:
The MBTA today announced service information on Monday, April 21, the day of the 2025 Boston Marathon. Every year, the MBTA supports the Boston Marathon with increased service to accommodate spectators and runners. To manage potential overcrowding, the MBTA will strategically deploy additional personnel to assist with passenger flow, boarding and disembarking, and maintaining a safe environment for everyone.
MBTA Service Information for the 2025 Boston Marathon:
To find the best Marathon viewing location on the T and service information, riders are encouraged to visit the MBTA’s Boston Marathon Guide at mbta.com/Marathon, which highlights MBTA stations closest to the Marathon route and includes other helpful information on purchasing fares, parking, and more.
Station Closures:
For public safety reasons, Copley Station is closed for the entire day on April 21. Riders are instead encouraged to use Arlington (serving all Green Line branches), Prudential (Green Line E branch), Hynes Convention Center (Green Line B, C, and D branches), or Back Bay on the Orange Line.
From approximately 10 AM to 6 PM, above-ground Green Line stops at South Street (B branch), Kent Street (C branch), and St.
The City of Watertown provided the following information about the Mt. Auburn Street Project. Update: The bus stop for Route 71 at Mount Auburn St and Bigelow Ave that was temporarily relocated will resume its normal location on Saturday April 5, 2025. For more details on Route 71, visit the MBTA’s schedules and maps. Intersection of Mount Auburn Street & Arlington Street Electrical Traffic and Pedestrian Signal Work
Starting Monday April 7, 2025 Newport Construction will be installing traffic electrical conduit (underground electrical pipes) at the intersection of Mount Auburn Street and Arlington Street.
Traffic ImpactsTemporary lane shifts may occur and work will take place on the sidewalks, but will remain open and accessible.