This notice came from the Newton-Needham Regional Chamber.
The MBTA is considering a number of changes to bus routes system-wide, including to routes connecting Newton, Needham, Watertown and Dedham.
Some of the T’s Better Bus plan will be seen as beneficial but others could represent a significant loss of service for some. We urge you to review the links below and provide input by March 13 to these proposals before any decisions are finalized.
- Among the changes that would impact both Newton – as well as Needham – is a reworking of the No. 59 bus route, which travels from Watertown across Newton and on to Needham Junction. This proposal would double the bus frequency on Needham Street but also eliminate the Eliot Street/Lincoln Street part of the route.
- Another big change would impact riders who take the No. 52 bus from Watertown to Wells Ave, the JCC or the Newton Community Farm because it would eliminate stops on Winchester St. and Nahanton St. as it travels between Watertown and Dedham.
- The T is also proposing a shorter route for the No. 60 bus from Kenmore Square, which would remove a stop at the Chestnut Hill Mall and terminate at Chestnut Hill Square, instead of Langley Road.
- Finally, service of 501-504 buses will be changed, resulting in the loss of frequency and mid-day and weekend service. In addition, passengers boarding or exiting at Newton Corner, would be required to navigate the challenging walk over the Mass Pike Bridge because of a plan to eliminate stops on both sides of the circle.
The MBTA is accepting feedback until March 13, 2019 here.