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Marlborough – A free shuttle bus service that will connect local commuters to the MBTA Southborough train station will begin transporting riders on September 16, 2019.
Backed by a combination of state and city funding, the free service will begin with the use of a 12-passenger handicap-accessible van, which will run 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The shuttle will initially make three full runs each morning and each evening, stopping at the MBTA commuter rail station in Southborough, Marlborough Hills and the Apex Center of New England. There will be a designated area within Marlborough Hills, where shuttle riders can park their cars.
Local seniors and veterans will be able to use the bus through the Marlborough Council on Aging between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
The cost of the service will be complimentary for local residents and employees during a one-year trial period, which could be extended based on the success of the program. In order to ensure they get a seat, riders will be required to pre-register at http://marlboroughedc.com/shuttle and show proof of residence when boarding at Marlborough Hills.
The city is launching the shuttle in response to ongoing concerns from local residents and companies about the lack of transportation options for commuters to and from Marlborough. The Marlborough Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), which will manage the service, has been exploring opportunities to address the need for increased local transportation options for the past several years.
The Marlborough City Council recently approved the Finance Committee’s recommendation of the transfer of $200,000 from City’s Economic Development Fund for one year.
