In an effort to bolster community engagement and showcase the benefits of expanded public transportation, the Healey-Driscoll Administration, in partnership with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), recently announced that South Coast Rail service will be fare-free until the end of March. The administration expressed its commitment to making commutes easier and sparking economic development in the region as part of this initiative. Governor Maura Healey stated on the Massachusetts government website, "We are so excited to be on the South Coast on Monday to celebrate the launch of rail service for these communities," further noting the administration's pride in offering free service as a gesture of gratitude and encouragement for residents to utilize the new rail line.
This service extension is a part of a broader effort aimed at bringing public transportation to every corner of the state. “South Coast Rail is going to bring easier commutes, less congestion, and economic and housing development all across the region,” Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll mentioned. The free service will span weekdays from March 24 to March 31, with an addition of free weekend service continuing through April. Travelers aboard the Fall River/New Bedford Line can enjoy this cost-free transportation period by simply stating their origin and destination stations to conductors, according to a statement on the Massachusetts government website.
For those looking to plan ahead, regular fares will resume after the promotion ends, with rides ranging from a full fare of $12.25 to a reduced fare of $6 for one-way trips. Monthly pass options are also available, with the added convenience of purchasing discounted fares through the MBTA's mTicket app. Passengers can take advantage of a $10 discount on monthly passes, and a 10 percent discount on 5-day Flex Passes purchased via the app.
Commuters can also benefit from free parking at the six South Coast Rail stations, a promotion that will run from March 24 through April 30. Spaces are subject to availability, and the offer may terminate early if the lots reach full capacity. Those utilizing the stations after the promotional period will incur the standard parking rates of $4 per day on weekdays and $2 per day on weekends and holidays. These details, including the significance of this being the first passenger rail service in the region in 65 years, were emphasized by MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng when he expressed pride in launching the service and invited residents to experience the convenience and benefits of the expanded transit options: “Whether you’re traveling from Fall River or New Bedford to downtown Boston or heading toward southeastern Mass. to enjoy their many community offerings, we welcome new and even more passengers to experience the benefits of this new transit expansion,” Eng told the Massachusetts government website.
With preparations fully underway, schedules for the South Coast Rail are available on the MBTA website.
