At absolutely no cost to the MBTA or its customers, inMOTION Wireless Inc. will build a $5.6 million system that will expand and improve both the availability and quality of the existing Wi-Fi service.
Under a new license agreement, a state-of-the-art Wi-Fi system will be installed throughout Boston-based Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) network of 14 Commuter Rail lines.
At absolutely no cost to the MBTA or its customers, inMOTION Wireless Inc. will build a $5.6 million system that will expand and improve both the availability and quality of the existing Wi-Fi service. The new Wi-Fi service will also be provided on MBTA Commuter Boats and South, North and Back Bay Stations.
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“This is a very exciting time for our Commuter Rail system,” said GM Beverly Scott. “While the introduction of new locomotives and new coaches will continue to improve on-time performance rates, customer service initiatives like Wi-Fi and eTicketing make the overall commuting experience an even better one.”
Under a 22-year license agreement, inMOTION will install, operate, and maintain a neutral, private, and dedicated Wi-Fi network on all MBTA passenger coaches and ferries. MBTA customers will have free access to the Internet, as well as a live television feed. Premium Wi-Fi service, which allows customers to stream data and video, will be available for a fee of $15 per month.
The MBTA will receive 7.5% of net revenue received from the Wi-Fi program.
The region’s fixed-route system finished out the year with a total of 373.5 million rides. Adding 12.3 million rides over 2024 represents an increase that is equal to the annual transit ridership of Kansas City.
The service is a flexible, reservation-based transit service designed to close the first- and last-mile gaps and connect riders to employment for just $5 per day.
The upgraded system, which went live earlier this month, supports METRO’s METRONow vision to enhance the customer experience, improve service reliability, and strengthen long-term regional mobility.
The agreement provides competitive wages and reflects strong labor-management collaboration, positive working relationships, and a shared commitment to building a world-class transit system for the community, said RTA CEO Lona Edwards Hankins.
The priorities are outlined in the 2026 Board and CEO Initiatives and Action Plan, which serves as a roadmap to guide the agency’s work throughout the year and ensure continued progress and accountability on voter-approved transportation investments and essential mobility services.