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

Friday Video: Why The Latest Wave of E-Bike Restrictions Are So Stupid

New Jersey just set a new standard for over-reaction on e-bikes by passing a victim-blaming law. Here's why no state should follow suit.

January 23, 2026

Friday Video: The Fight to Expand A South Carolina Freeway … For Bikes

Greenville is looking for the good kind of induced demand — by expanding a popular rail-trail.

January 23, 2026

Friday’s Headlines Pollute All They Want

If the courts and Congress won't do it, the EPA under President Trump will just have to repeal itself.

January 23, 2026

Talking Headways Podcast: A Week Without Driving

Anna Zivarts discusses the lessons of her national campaign and yearly event with several politicians who brought it to their communities.

January 22, 2026

Aisle Be Damned: Dems and GOP Unite in Oregon In Bid To Legalize Kei Trucks

Tiny trucks bring people together across the political spectrum — and they could help save lives and budgets.

January 22, 2026

Thursday’s Headlines Are Getting Their Butts Kicked by China

China alone accounted for 72 percent of the new metro and light rail lines that opened last year, more than doubling the rest of the world combined.

January 22, 2026
See all posts