Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
Boston

SEE IT: In Boston, Bus Rapid Transit Works

The crimson tide … Beantown style. Photo: Clarence Eckerson Jr.

Boston is on a roll.

The bus system in the Hub of the Universe is undergoing a long overdue transformation. From redesigning the network to pursuing electrification to completely re-imagined streets primed for better bus service, the experience for thousands of daily riders in the region is looking better than it has in decades. The evolution of bus lanes and BRT elements is visible throughout the region in municipalities like Somerville, Everett, Chelsea and Boston where streets are being transformed to support public health and an integrated transit system as a pandemic recovery strategy as well as to combat climate change, traffic congestion and to build a better, more equitable region.

Massachusetts is emerging as a national transit champion by giving street space to the bus and looking to build BRT, even as there is more work ahead to connect gaps in the network. Leadership from elected officials, community members and other regional collaborators has turbo-charged all the bus improvement projects, showcasing what can be done in only a few years and inspiring a future that prioritizes buses and the people who rely on them.

This revolution is being televised (below):

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Talking Headways Podcast: The (Parking) Reformation

Tony Jordan, president of the Parking Reform Network, discusses getting rid of our cars, parking policy, and Donald Shoup’s legacy.

December 4, 2025

This Holiday Season, Buy Your Kid a Bike With Your Pre-Tax Healthcare Money

Got an FSA account that's about to expire, or an HSA fund gathering dust? Now is a great time to invest in your child's health by getting them a bike — with a little help from your fellow taxpayers.

December 4, 2025

Thursday’s Headlines Knock Down a Straw Man

Lack of regulations are the reason cars are so big, heavy, expensive and dangerous, not the regulations themselves.

December 4, 2025

Wednesday’s Headlines Take the Wheel

If Jesus won't take it, maybe AI will.

December 3, 2025

Advocates Push for Safety in Next Surface Transportation Reauthorization

A much-anticipated annual survey of state road safety laws called on federal lawmakers to back up their colleagues work.

December 3, 2025

Report: NYC is Undercounting The E-Bike Boom

A new study from an MIT grad student shows that e-bikes are the most popular vehicle for those using New York City's bike lanes.

December 3, 2025
See all posts