Salem Launches Fare-Free Route 28 Bus

Merrimack Valley Transit has announced it will launch Route 28 on April 6, establishing a fixed bus connection from the Lawrence MBTA station to Methuen and Salem.

The new fare-free Route 28 bus service aims to give Salem residents expanded access to regional transit for work, shopping, and health care. Key stops on Route 28 include Aldi, Target (outbound only), Tuscan Village, and Mass General Brigham.

According to an Eagle-Tribune report, the expansion follows MeVa's securing of a Massachusetts Department of Transportation Transit Connectivity Grant, which aims to enhance mobility across state lines and throughout the region. During its initial year, the state grant will fund the route, reducing local financial impact.

This new service builds on MeVa's existing network, which includes Route 24 to the Kennedy Transfer Center in Lowell. There, riders can connect to the Lowell Regional Transit Authority and Route 13 to Plaistow.

As noted by the Eagle-Tribune, the addition of Route 28 will enable passengers to move from Southern New Hampshire through the Merrimack Valley and into Greater Boston via public transportation.

Speaking with the Eagle-Tribune, Salem Town Manager Joe Devine said the Route 28 addition will also create economic benefits for the region. The route is designed to bring workers into Salem while making it easier for visitors to access retail and dining destinations, including Tuscan Village and nearby businesses along Route 28.

Buses on Route 28 will run every hour and 45 minutes. Weekday buses will run from 6:15 a.m. to 7:45 p.m., while weekend buses will operate from 9:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For questions or to receive more information, visit the MeVa website or call 978-469-6878.