How The MBTA's New Proposed Bus Network Affects Arlington

ARLINGTON, MA — On Monday, the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) released a map of its new proposed bus network, which prioritizes equity, increases frequency in busy neighborhoods, improves all-day service, creates new connections, and simplifies the network.

The changes are part of the Better Bus Project, the MBTA's proposal to update the bus system to meet the changing needs of the Greater Boston area due to shifting demographics, emerging employment districts, increasing traffic congestion, and changing travel patterns, according to the MBTA's website.

For those traveling from Arlington, proposed changes include the extension of Route 90 and the addition of the new 54 bus route with weekend services.

According to the MBTA's proposal, Route 90 would extend to Clarendon Hill, Arlington, Everett Square, Chelsea Station, replacing Route 88. Orange Line transfers would be maintained at Assembly instead of Sullivan. There would also be services earlier in the morning and later in the evening, with more weekend and evening frequency.

Route 54 would replace parts of the 67, 505, 554, 558 bus routes and extend from Riverside to Moody, Beaver, and Belmont Streets in Waltham. From there, It would go from Waverley to Belmont Center and Arlington Center.

The MBTA will open public comment on the bus network redesign proposal for the next three months. More information can be found here.