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Consolidated Smart Shuttle System

Creating a system of on-demand shuttles to improve efficiency

POLICY DESCRIPTION

The purpose of this shuttle is to connect major transit stations to large employers. The system would build upon existing shuttle services, but would now be open to the public for a small fare. Preference will still be offered to employees on specific shuttles. These include the MASCO and EZRIDE shuttles that connect North Station to Longwood Medical and Academic Area and Kendall Square. Consolidated shuttles can run at a higher frequency with a lower cost. Riders will be able to request shuttles online, so they will be responsive to demand.

About the project

Benefits and Issues Addressed

Many employer shuttles follow the same route, regardless of need, and get stuck in traffic. These redundant shuttles can be better utilized when running on a demand-based service. A consolidated system offered to the public would be able to use MBTA bus lanes to reduce travel time. The general public would also enjoy a wider bus system. This includes reaching Harvard's burgeoning Allston campus.

Implementation
  • Approximate cost: $500,000 for operations plan
  • Potential funding sources: BCEC, Massport, developers and employers, MASCO, and area universities with support from MBTA and Boston Transportation Department
  • Who’s responsible: Service providers who would be selected through open RFP process
  • Timeframe: Within five years
Best practices

MASCO already operates effective shuttle services for the Longwood Medical Area. They can serve as a model for consolidation. Using an app to request needed service can improve efficiency for these shuttles here and across the City. Learn more about the MASCO shuttles.

Public input

“Consolidate shuttles and buses -> create monopoly to focus $ and reduce inefficiencies.” — Chinatown roundtable

"Privately owned hospital bus shuttles (LMA for one) should offer space for the public. Hospitals do, after all, benefit tremendously from the financial breaks they get from the City.” — Roxbury roundtable

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