LRTA Says Free Bus Fares Will Extend Through June 2026

The Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA) has announced that its free bus fare pilot program will be extended through June 30, 2026. 

This extension is backed by a larger $30 million grant from the Healey-Driscoll administration. The funding, which began in December 2024, allocated more than $1.17 million to LRTA and $30 million total in grants to 13 state regional transit authorities to offer year-round, fare-free public transportation.

“The LRTA wants to thank Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, as well as the Massachusetts State Legislature, for funding this free fare transportation pilot program that will greatly benefit our communities,” LRTA Administrator David Bradley said in a statement shared with The (Lowell) Sun.

The free fare program is being credited for offering many community benefits, including improving attendance for students in Lowell's schools. Local officials and individuals such as District 8 City Council candidate Marcos Candido have praised the extended free fare program, viewing it as a way to boost ridership, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance road safety.

The fare-free extension isn't the only good news that has come to LRTA recently. 

In October 2024, LRTA received $6.8 million in federal funds to transition from diesel-powered to hybrid-electric buses. During the summer, four state-of-the art, 30-foot buses arrived in Lowell from Gillig of Livermore, California. The buses debuted in August, expanding the LRTA's bus fleet to 54. These energy-efficient buses bear an updated red-and-gray color design and seat up to 27 passengers.

According to The Sun, LRTA began operating in late 1976 and is funded by the federal and state governments, local assessments, and income from fare boxes, parking, and advertising revenues. Its operating budget is $12 million.