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MTBA Reduced Commuter Rail Fares Take Effect July 1

By TWIW Staff | June 21, 2022
Last Updated: June 21, 2022

The MBTA is reminding riders that several fare changes on the Commuter Rail, ferry, buses and more go into effect on July 1.

The changes include lowering the 1-Day LinkPass to $11, expanding second transfers, and a number of new pass products for Reduced Fare Riders. These changes aim to improve equity by closing gaps in existing fare structures for Reduced Fare Riders, and to simplify fare tariff rules.

The current one-day unlimited pass to ride on the Commuter Rail (as well as subway, busses and ferry) is $12.75. On July 1, the price will drop to $11 in hopes of encouraging more riders and expand ridership.

For Worcester residents eligible for reduced fares and who use the Commuter Rail to commute each day to work or for other reasons, the following changes could help save money:

  • Introducing the 7-Day LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders: Aiming to increase equity by increasing the benefits of purchasing fares in bulk for Reduced Fare Riders, a 7-Day LinkPass for Reduced Fare riders will be available for $10, which breaks even after nine subway rides. This product is designed to meet the needs of individuals who might not have enough cash on-hand to afford a monthly pass, but who qualify for Reduced Fare programs.
  • Introducing Monthly Passes for Reduced Fare Riders on Commuter Rail, Ferry, and Express Bus: In order to increase equity by closing gaps in the T’s offering of pass products for Reduced Fare Riders, monthly passes on Commuter Rail, Ferry, and Express Bus will be made available. This update offers passes for Reduced Fare Riders at approximately 50% of the full fare pass prices.
  • Expanding Availability of the LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders on Commuter Rail Zone 1A and Inner Harbor Ferry: Currently, a LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders is only available on CharlieCard fare media instead of a printed “flash pass” CharlieTicket that Commuter Rail conductors and ferry staff can see to visually validate a fare. To increase access and equitable pricing on Reduced Fare passes, the LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders will be available on a CharlieTicket and valid for Commuter Rail travel in Zone 1A and on the Charlestown Ferry.

One important note: Riders will not be able to purchase these new passes at Worcester’s Union Station. They will have to find a nearby station to purchase them.

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