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The MBTA has long offered a senior citizen pass program, which provide significant discounts for commuter rail riders. Now, a new program is providing a similar program to young people.
The Youth Pass Program offers reduced fares on bus, subway, Commuter Rail, Express Bus, and ferry to young adults with low income. The program is a partnership between the T and participating cities and towns. And, according to Town Manager Jamie Hellen, it is something he is currently looking into.
According to the MBTA, the Youth Pass CharlieCards can be loaded with cash value for roughly 50% reduced one-way fares, or $30 monthly LinkPasses for unlimited bus, subway, and Fairmount Line Zone 1A travel. It can also be used for reduced one-way fares on Commuter Rail and ferry.
Framingham and Attleboro are the closest participating communities. According to
MBTA spokesperson Lisa Battiston, the Youth Pass program is a partnership with municipalities who must simply agree to administer the program on behalf of the MBTA, such as reviewing applications and determining eligibility. In the case of Framingham (which joined the program early this week), the city partnered with Wayside Youth & Family Support Network to provide that administrative support.
“We are so pleased to announce the launch of the MBTA Youth Pass program in Framingham, with Wayside as a leading partner,” said City of Framingham Mayor Yvonne Spicer. “Transportation access and cost issues can prevent young people from reaching the classes, trainings, medical care, jobs, religious, family, or social events, and more that they deserve to take advantage of and participate in just as much as everyone else...so I thank Wayside and the MBTA for lowering the barrier to mobility for Framingham’s young people.”
“Like the recent municipalities to join the program, Franklin can review the requirements and submit an intake form expressing their interest to become a partner,” said Battiston. “Any municipality or nonprofit can reach out.”
