How The MBTA's New Proposed Bus Network Affects Newton, Waltham

WALTHAM, MA — On Monday, the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) released a map of its new proposed bus network, which prioritizes equity, increases frequency in busy neighborhoods, improves all-day service, creates new connections, and simplifies the network.

The changes are part of the Better Bus Project, the MBTA’s proposal to update the bus system to meet the changing needs of the Greater Boston area due to shifting demographics, emerging employment districts, increasing traffic congestion, and changing travel patterns, according to the MBTA’s website.

For those traveling from Newton and Waltham, proposed changes include more frequent runs for the 70 bus, an extension of 61 bus route, and the addition of the new 54 and 53 bus routes with weekend services.

According to the MBTA's proposal, Route 61 would extend from Watertown Yard to West Newton via Washington Street and end up in North Waltham, replacing Routes 553, 554, 556, and 558.

Route 54 would replace parts of the 67, 505, 554, 558 bus routes and extend from Riverside to Moody, Beaver, and Belmont Streets in Waltham. From there, It would go from Waverley to Belmont Center and Arlington Center.

Route 53 will replace Bus 553 and extend from Riverside to Carter Street in Waltham. The proposal would improve Saturday frequency and add a new Sunday service.

The MBTA will open public comment on the bus network redesign proposal for the next three months. More information can be found here.