No Free Rides: MWRTA Fares Coming Back In May

FRAMINGHAM, MA — The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority suspended fares during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the fare-free rides are coming to an end.

MWRTA officials announced the return of fares beginning on May 1 for all of its services, something that was never in question within the organization.

"It had been the intention of the MWRTA to restart the collection of fares as soon as it was possible," officials said in the MWRTA newsletter.

The timing comes as the authority integrated a new software system which officials said will provide an upgraded experience for rides.

That means starting in May, riders will adjust to both a return of fares and also a new system. The latter of those changes shouldn't be too much of a burden, officials said.

The new system comes with the removal of the old "CharlieCard" system and the installation of a new "Catch Card" system which is compatible with the mobile "Catch App".

Officials said the new fare system works similarly to the old system, but passengers are now able to pay fares on a mobile app in addition to paying with cash and a fare card. The MWRTA will also offer a $20 monthly pass for fixed routes.