Massachusetts Governor Healey announces summer savings for commuter rail riders; here are the details

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today announced a series of summer fare promotions and discounts on the MBTA Commuter Rail to lower costs for riders, support regular commuters and encourage more people to choose public transportation as Massachusetts prepares for a busy season of major events across the state.  

Governor Healey made the announcement at North Station alongside Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Interim Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phil Eng this morning, where they outlined four promotions that will run on the Commuter Rail through June, July and August, including Free Fridays, a 50 percent discount on monthly passes, and more. Monthly passholders will save between $321 and $639 over the summer, depending on their route.  

With major events and increased travel expected across the state this summer, the Administration is focused on making sure people have a reliable, affordable alternative to driving so we can reduce congestion, support daily commuters, and keep Massachusetts moving. These steps will help residents and visitors get around during a busy summer while making public transportation a more convenient choice for everyday travel. 

“We want to make using public transportation easier and more affordable for people – for our regular commuters, for residents going out to local businesses and restaurants, and for everyone who will be enjoying the exciting special events we have going on this summer,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That is why we are discounting commuter rail fares and offering free service on Fridays all summer long, saving people hundreds of dollars. The MBTA has made incredible strides to improve service, particularly on the commuter rail, and we want as many people as possible to choose public transportation for special events and as part of their daily routine.”  

“These fare promotions will help make it easier for people to get around Massachusetts this summer,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We want residents and visitors to be able to travel affordably and take advantage of everything our communities have to offer.”   

“As we prepare for events like the World Cup, MA250, Tall Ships, and for millions of visitors to experience all that Massachusetts has to offer, we want to thank our regular riders that rely on us 365 days a year for your patience and continuing to choose transit during this unprecedented summer. These free and discounted summer Commuter Rail services are a Thank You to our regular passengers and to encourage more people to experience the convenience of leaving their cars at home and choosing transit,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “We are committed to furthering MassDOT’s mission of providing safe, reliable, and resilient transportation in every corner of the state, and we hope passengers across the region take advantage of our Free Summer Fridays, summer discounts, and bringing a friend on the Commuter Rail on weekends for just $1 each way to explore the many wonderful recreational opportunities Massachusetts has to offer just a train trip away.” 

The following fare promotions will be available through June, July and August 2026:  

• Free Summer Fridays: All Commuter Rail service will be free on Fridays in June, July, and August 2026, including Juneteenth and July 3. Regular fares will be in place for Boston Stadium Trains, the CapeFLYER, and any other special event trains to Foxboro. 
• 50 Percent Discount on Monthly Commuter Rail Passes: Calendar month Commuter Rail passes for June, July, and August 2026 will be discounted by 50 percent. This discount applies to full fare and reduced fare monthly passes for Zones 1 through 10, Interzone 1 through 10, and Commuter Ferry passes. This discount will not apply to Zone 1A passes. All non-calendar month Commuter Rail products (for example, single-ride tickets, 5-Day Flex Passes, and Weekend Passes) will remain at their standard prices. 
• Expanded Weekend Travel for Monthly Pass Holders: Monthly Commuter Rail passes will be valid for travel to any zone on weekends. Zone 1 through 10 pass holders may travel through Zone 10, and Interzone pass holders may travel through Interzone 10. This does not apply to Zone 1A passes or ferry service. Regular fares will be in place for Boston Stadium Trains, the CapeFLYER, and any other special event trains to Foxboro. 
• $1 Weekend “Summer Companion” Fare for Commuter Rail Monthly Pass Holders: Monthly pass holders may bring one companion on any weekend Commuter Rail trip covered by their pass for $1 each day. This offer is limited to one companion per pass holder. Regular fares will remain in place for Boston Stadium trains, the CapeFLYER, and other special event trains to Foxboro.  

To support increased ridership during the FIFA World Cup, the MBTA will temporarily adjust Commuter Rail schedules in June and July, including expanded service to accommodate up to 20,000 passengers on 14 trains per match day to Boston Stadium. 

The MBTA recognizes these temporary schedule changes may affect regular riders. These fare discounts are intended to offset those impacts, support regular riders, and encourage more people to choose transit during a busy summer season and beyond. 

For more information, visit MBTA.com