Press Release: Dignity Alliance Massachusetts Applauds MBTA Fall Fare Pilots for Older Adults and Commuters Urges Full Paratransit Parity and Permanent Protections
BOSTON, MA — September 1, 2026 — Dignity Alliance Massachusetts, a grassroots coalition dedicated to advancing the rights, autonomy, and dignity of older adults, persons with disabilities, and caregivers, issued the following statement today welcoming the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) new Fall Fare Pilots while outlining critical priorities to ensure full equity across the Commonwealth’s public transit network:
“Accessible, affordable public transportation is a cornerstone of community living, independence, and dignity,” said Meg Coffin, Chief Executive Officer of Worcester-based Your Access Advocates and Chair of Dignity Alliance Massachusetts Home and Community Based Workgroup. “The MBTA’s Fall 2026 Fare Pilots—particularly the introduction of free transit for non-driving older adults aged 75 and older—represent a meaningful step forward in removing financial barriers for seniors who have hung up their keys. When paired with simplified transfer windows and reduced express bus fares, these initiatives provide real relief for riders living on fixed incomes.”
Key Highlights of the MBTA Fall Fare Pilots
- Car-Free Senior Program (Age 75+): Grants free transit access across all MBTA subway, local bus, Commuter Rail, and ferry lines for Massachusetts residents aged 75 and older who hold a state Massachusetts ID card (non-driver’s license).
- Expanded 2-Hour Unlimited Transfers: Enables unlimited transfers across subway, local bus, and ferry routes within two hours while paying only the single highest fare incurred.
- Elimination of Express Bus Premiums: Aligns express bus fares with standard local bus pricing ($1.70 full fare / $0.85 reduced fare).
- Commuter Rail Savings Extension: Extends 50% discounts on monthly passes and $1 weekend companion passes through November 2026.
Regional Transit Authority (RTA) Information
Through dedicated state grant funding under the Fair Share Amendment (often referred to as the “millionaire’s tax”), most of the Commonwealth’s 15 Regional Transit Authorities operate year-round, system-wide fare-free bus service. Learn more about specific RTA information.
Dignity Alliance Massachusetts: Priorities for Transit Equity
While celebrating these positive reforms, Dignity Alliance Massachusetts emphasizes that pilot programs must serve as a foundation for long-term systemic progress:
- Paratransit Parity (The RIDE): The coalition calls on the MBTA and the Healey-Driscoll Administration to ensure equivalent fare relief, subsidies, and seamless integration for users of The RIDE, the MBTA’s door-to-door paratransit service, so riders with mobility impairments and disabilities are never left behind.
- Streamlined, Accessible Enrollment: Application processes for the Car-Free Senior Program and income-eligible reduced fares must remain barrier-free, offering intuitive online options as well as robust in-person assistance at local Councils on Aging (COAs), Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs), and Independent Living Centers across Massachusetts.
- From Pilots to Permanent Policy: Pilot initiatives that demonstrate improved mobility, health outcomes, and economic security for older residents and essential caregivers must be permanently funded in state transit budgets.
- Physical Accessibility and Reliability: Affordable fares must be matched with reliable elevator maintenance, accessible stations, reliable step-free boarding, and clear wayfinding across the entire transit network.
“Mobility is not a privilege; it is fundamental to healthcare access, nutrition, social connection, and civic life,” added Paul Lanzikos, Dignity Alliance Massachusetts Coordinator. “We look forward to working closely with the MBTA Board, the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, and local advocacy partners to evaluate these pilots and ensure Massachusetts builds a transit infrastructure that honors every resident at every stage of life.”
For more information about transportation for persons with disabilities, contact the Riders Transportation Access Group at the Boston Center for Independent Living: rtagboston@bostoncil.org / (617) 338-6665