Equity and Accessibility Central to Cambridge’s Transportation Goals

Traveling the bustling streets of Cambridge should be a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, whether taking a stroll, running errands, or commuting to work. They should also be inviting for all people. As such, equity and accessibility are paramount transportation focuses for the City.

Reduced fares for income-eligible MBTA riders began in September 2024. Early adopters of the program are able to apply online now at mbta.com/income-eligible. A meaningful improvement for fare equity, the new program provides riders who are aged 18-64 and have low income with reduced one-way fares of approximately 50% off on all MBTA buses, subway, Commuter Rail, and paratransit (The RIDE) travel. This unlocks affordability for residents across the MBTA service area. Riders with low income are able apply in multiple languages online and at five in-person locations around the MBTA service area.

The City promotes bicycling as a sustainable and equitable form of travel. In support of this, access and affordability have been prioritized Bluebikes, including their new ebikes, with reduced monthly and annual fees for low-income residents enrolled in Bluebikes’ Income-Eligible Program.

For seniors and residents with disabilities, Cambridge’s Door2Door Transportation program provides rides to local non-emergency medical appointments and weekly grocery trips – all for a voluntary donation. Additionally, the MassHealth Transportation Program offers rides to medical appointments for eligible members whose doctors have submitted a PT-1 form, while The RIDE supports paratransit for non-medical trips. More information on accessing these services is available at https://camb.ma/ccpdtransport.

Ensuring that the City remains accessible for all its residents requires careful planning and dedicated advocacy. That's where Cambridge’s various committees -- the Pedestrian, Bicycle and Transit Committees -- step in. These volunteer groups of residents, supported by City staff, are leading the charge to make commuting and accessing Cambridge enjoyable for all.