Release Date:2000-09-29 00:00:00
E-Mail:lrivera@mbta.com

MBTA & MassBike Coalition Introduce Easier Access For Cyclists

On October 1, 2000, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) will no longer require a permit to bring a bicycle on the Blue, Red and Orange lines and the Commuter Rail system.

Over the last several months, the MBTA has worked closely with the Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition to review the MBTA's "Bikes-on-the-T" Program.

The elimination of the permit is one of several initiatives that the MBTA is adopting to improve accessibility for bicyclists. Upon federal approval of funding, the MBTA will expand bicycle parking at its stations over the next several years.

The MBTA is in the process of distributing a new "Bikes-on-the-T" brochure to address recent changes to its bike policy. This brochure will explain the rules of bicycles on the T, as well as, offer customers information on MBTA station locations that offer bicycle parking.

"MassBike applauds the MBTA's commitment to providing increased access and facilities for bicycles throughout its system," said MassBike Executive Director Tim Baldwin.

The MBTA recently introduced bicycle access to its Crosstown bus routes. This program involved equipping the Crosstown buses with front bicycle racks. This program will test the effectiveness of these racks within the MBTA bus fleet.

"Our number one goal is customer service," said MBTA General Manager Robert H. Prince Jr. "We're confident that the removal of the permit requirement will allow cyclists improved access to our system while inviting new riders onto the system."

The MBTA plans to continue working with the Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition and other groups to promote these intermodal connections to transit service.