Multimodal Integration

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INTEGRATION

The Everett‒Boston BRT can be more than corridor infrastructure and buses. It can shape the surrounding built environment, influence travel demand and mode choice, and support sustainable and equitable transitoriented communities. This depends on the BRT corridor being integrated with other regional transport networks, systems, and services and proactively stabilizing housing. A BRT corridor that is well-integrated with the multimodal network not only improves access but also facilitates easy connections between modes.81

MULTIMODAL INTEGRATION

The Everett‒Boston BRT corridor should be planned to maximize its connections with the existing MBTA bus and rail networks as well as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Integration can happen on three levels: physical, fare, and information.

PHYSICAL INTEGRATION

When designing the BRT corridor, it is critical to keep its physical integration with existing transport networks front of mind. Stations and terminals where the BRT routes connect with other MBTA bus and rail services will be most important to design well. Thinking of the passenger’s journey between modes can help to identify gaps and confusing or unsafe infrastructure. Integrated transport facilities should include a continuous, accessible pedestrian pathways, safe bicycle facilities and parking, adequate curb access for mobility services, and seamless transfer between modes.

PHYSICALLY INTEGRATE BRT AND OTHER TRANSIT FACILITIES

Sullivan Square is the third-busiest bus transfer node in the MBTA network, so physically integrating the BRT station at Sullivan Square with the other MBTA station facilities will be essential to ensuring passengers can safely and easily transfer to other regional bus routes and the Orange Line.

Other nodes along the BRT corridor where physical integration with existing or planned transportation facilities should be carefully considered include:

Haymarket Station

Chelsea Busway extension (which would provide access to the Commuter Rail)

BRT route to Cambridge’s connection with Kendall Square Station Community College Orange Line station

South Station via the City of Boston’s Center City Link proposal

The physical integration of shared mobility modes (e.g., bikeshare, scooters, TNCs) is also important to think about when designing the BRT corridor and stations (see section Bicycle Connections). For instance, the location of Blue Bike stations along the BRT corridor could be adjusted slightly to make them more convenient for passengers exiting or entering the BRT stations.

FARE INTEGRATION

MBTA’s new rollout schedule for the Fare Transformation program may align with implementation of the Everett‒Boston BRT. It is unclear if ticket vending machines in the BRT stations will be able to dispense Charlie Cards and tappable Charlie Tickets that facilitate more seamless transfers between the MBTA bus, BRT, and rail networks.

UPDATE FARE POLICY TO ALLOW FREE TRANSFERS BETWEEN BRT AND OTHER MODES

MBTA fare policy will need to be updated to reflect the new BRT fares and permit transfers between the BRT and other bus, rail, and commuter rail routes.

EXPLORE FEASIBILITY OF PAYMENT INTEGRATION BETWEEN SHARED MOBILITY AND TRANSIT

Consider fare integration between Blue Bikes, MBTA BRT, and other transit services. This could include allowing people to rent a Blue Bike with a tap of a Charlie Card, or purchasing MBTA and Blue Bike tickets within the same mobile app.

INTEGRATED PASSENGER INFORMATION

DESIGN BRT PASSENGER INFORMATION AND SIGNAGE

It is equally important for the BRT passenger information to be well integrated with signage and information about other regional transportation services. This should include clear information about transit connections at BRT stations, maps showing the BRT corridor as part of the MBTA network, as well as passenger wayfinding signage directing people to nearby destinations, attractions, and other mobility services. BRT route, operational, and fare information should also be incorporated into MBTA’s GTFS feed so that it can be integrated into any third-party trip-planning and transit information apps.