MBTA to Receive $530 Million to Improve Safe and Affordable Services

Massachusetts DOT has approved $530 million in funding from the state’s FY26 Fair Share Supplemental Budget for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). The investment provides the agency with stable funding to maintain reliable service, improve transit infrastructure, and expand access to affordable public transportation.

Interim Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng said, “Across the Commonwealth, people rely on transportation to connect them to opportunities like good jobs, healthcare, education, and much more. I’m proud to have the support of the Healey-Driscoll Administration as we ensure that we deliver meaningful results that improve the quality of life for the public and continue making transit available for all that rely on it.”

Most of the funding ($450 million) will replenish MBTA’s Deficiency Fund, which supports operating budget shortfalls and enables consistent, reliable service and maintenance. The remainder will support physical infrastructure improvements ($60 million) and the income-eligible reduced fare program ($20 million), which provides discounted fares for riders with incomes below a certain threshold.

Chair of the MBTA Board of Directors Thomas M. McGee called the Fair Share funding a necessary investment as “MBTA has been delivering more station upgrades, more reliable safe service, and more for its riders overall.”