Boston Launches Two-Year Fare-Free Pilot on Bus Routes 23, 28, and 29

BOSTON — July 19, 2026 — Boston launches two-year fare-free pilot on Routes 23, 28, and 29 using federal ARPA funds. Mayor Michelle Wu announced the program Saturday at the Sportsman's Tennis Club in the Franklin Fields neighborhood, joined by Boston Housing Authority Director Kate Bennett and Franklin Fields task force leaders Tamara and Saracely Tejeda. The three routes, chosen because they fall entirely within city limits, are funded through federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars approved by the Boston City Council. A six-month fare-free pilot on Route 28 alone recorded a 22 percent ridership increase and a 20 percent reduction in boarding time; roughly one-third of riders reported direct cost savings of more than $20 per month. "This is what equity looks like," said Bennett. A full pilot report is expected within the week.