MassDOT News
MArtap and MAurbanTAP have now merged
MArtap and MAurbanTAP driver training programs are now merged into one unified driver training program. There is no change to what courses are offered or required, or who is eligible. Previously, organizations had to determine whether they were eligible for training through the MArtap program, MAurbanTAP program, or both; this step is no longer needed. Regional Transit Authorities, Councils on Aging, municipal transportation providers, non-profit transportation providers providing transportation in a rural area, and recipients of a vehicle or grant through MassDOT's Community Transit Grant Program are eligible to participate in MassDOT’s driver training courses. Subscribe to the newsletter for updates on driver training.
MassDOT Launches LEAP Program
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT)’s Office of Transportation Planning (OTP) is launching the Local Early and Actionable Planning (LEAP) Program to help municipal officials jump start infrastructure projects. The LEAP Program will provide planning and early-stage design assistance to towns and cities across Massachusetts with a particular focus on rural and economically disadvantaged communities as these communities often face significant barriers when it comes to initiating transportation projects due to limited funding and staffing. The funding, totaling approximately $1 million, is included in Governor Healey’s Capital Investment Plan this year and will be funded as part of MassDOT’s capital budget for FY 2026. Read the MassDOT press release about this program.
MassDOT's Moving Together Conference, will take place October 28th, 2025 in Boston and is now open for Early Bird Registration. This conference will feature workshops and panels focused on pedestrian, bicycling and public transit topics. Register early here!
North Suburban Transportation Coordinators Meeting
On July 15th, Transportation Coordinators from Councils on Aging and other municipal departments in the northern suburbs of Boston met at the Stoneham Council on Aging to discuss transportation challenges in their communities and potential possibilities for collaboration and partnership. Convened by Lillian Hartman, Director of Public Services in North Reading, the group came together after a survey was conducted of 18 communities in that area that looked at the possibilities for vehicle and/or driver sharing when sudden need arose. The agenda included a demonstration of transportation scheduling software by Erica Brown, Executive Director of the Melrose Council on Aging. In addition, communities discussed other community transportation solutions and potential opportunities for collaboration. Included in the discussion was Lexington's Lexpress bus service, Burlington’s partnership with Lyft, and Stoneham’s new shuttle service.
Greater Boston Food Bank: 5th Annual Food Access Study
In late June, the GBFB released their 5th Annual Food Access Study titled, Food Access in Massachusetts, The Cost of Hunger. The report concluded that “approximately 2 million Massachusetts adults faced food insecurity in 2024.” Transportation was cited several times in the report. Households with food insecurity were more than three times more likely to report that they had trouble paying for at least one other basic need (such as housing, heat and electricity, medical needs, transportation, child care, and/or debts or other bills). In addition, 7 percent of adults in food-secure households vs. 51 percent in food-insecure households, reported missing work, medical, and other meetings and appointments due to lack of transportation.
The report did cite progress toward transportation equity through state-wide investments in providing reduced-fare or free transit programs—along with expanded funding for rural service connectivity, extended service hours, and broader regional transportation access. Read the press release here.
Opportunities for Feedback
There are several opportunities to offer feedback to regional transit planning efforts.
The Cape Cod Commission, in partnership with the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA), has launched a two-year Transit Needs Assessment to better understand how public transportation is serving Cape Cod and how it can be improved for the people who rely on it every day. The Commission seeks feedback from year-round and seasonal residents, visitors, and commuters. This study is focused on evaluating current services, identifying gaps, and developing strategies to make public transit safer, more accessible, and more effective for everyone. Read more about the needs assessment.
Franklin Regional Transit Authority is working on updating the Regional Comprehensive Plan. As part of that process, they are asking for community input for transit improvements over the next 5 years through a short survey. The survey is open through September 10th. Take the survey here.
Lowell Regional Transit Authority is also working on a 5-year Comprehensive Regional Transit Plan. The goals of the plan are to assess service, expand on enhancements that have been working well, and find and implement opportunities for improvement. Provide feedback via a survey here.
Upcoming Webinars
From Walk Audit to Safer, More Welcoming Streets
AARP and WalkMassachusetts will present a webinar on August 14th to explore key tools and strategies communities can use to improve walkability, such as a walk audit to evaluate safety, accessibility and the overall pedestrian experience. Walk audits are a powerful way to identify barriers to mobility, highlight areas for improvement and make the case for streets that are more welcoming for everyone. Learn how to turn walk audit findings into action by identifying priorities, building community support and making a compelling case for change to decision makers. This webinar will explore how documented observations and data can lead to real improvements, from new crosswalks to safer, more inclusive street designs. Register for this event here.
Mobility Week: Designing a Marketing Campaign
The Association of Mobility Managers is hosting a webinar on August 19th at 2:00 PM, that will feature presentations from mobility managers in Kansas and Oklahoma. They will share how they built partnerships, engaged communities, and raised awareness around mobility options during Mobility Week campaigns. The webinar will provide practical strategies and inspiration to launch or grow a Mobility Week campaign. Presenters include Michelle Coats, Director of Mobility Management for North Central Kansas CTD#7 and Olivia "Liv" Hook, Director of Mobility Management at Oklahoma DOT. Click here for more information and to register.
|
