By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
Marlborough – City and state officials gathered Oct. 2 at the Hilton Gardens Inn to officially celebrate the launch of a free shuttle bus service that will connect local commuters to the MBTA Southborough train station.
Marlborough residents will be able to ride, free of charge, the 12-passenger handicap-accessible van, which will run 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. The shuttle will initially make three full runs each morning and each evening, stopping at MBTA 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. to 3:30 p.m.
The new shuttle is backed by a combination of state and city funding, and will be complimentary for local residents and employees during a one-year trial period.
State Rep. Danielle Gregoire (D-Marlborough) noted that “transportation challenges” is an issue she hears about often from her constituents.
“This shuttle will go a long way to help residents,” she said.
She also lauded the work between the city, state and A&A Metro, adding “this shows what a partnership can achieve.”
Mayor Arthur Vigeant also thanked all of those involved in the initiative. If the program was successful, he said, the city would look into expanding the program.
In order to ensure they get a seat, riders will be required to pre-register at marlboroughedc.com/shuttle and show proof of residence when boarding at Marlborough Hills.
