MetroFuture would make transit a more attractive option by improving service on existing lines and by extending the reach of service to new locations that can support it with transit-friendly land uses (new, old, or a mix of the two).

Regionwide, approximately two-thirds of current residents and jobs are within a mile of the MBTA system. MetroFuture focuses more than two thirds of new housing units and jobs near existing train stops and bus routes.

By focusing growth in developed areas, MetroFuture also increases the number of locations that have a “critical mass” of people, jobs, and destinations sufficient to support some sort of transit service. With additional growth in cities, town centers, and employment centers, an increasing share of the region’s residents and jobs would be at or near transit-supportive densities by 2030: (32% at densities greater than 30 residents & jobs per developed acre at the TAZ level, compared to 30% in 2000; and 53% at densities above 15 residents & jobs per developed acre, compared to 49% in 2000.)    However, the existing transit system does not serve all these areas.   Under MetroFuture, by 2030, there would be 575,000 residents and jobs at densities above 15 persons per acre, but in locations beyond the reach of the existing transit system.

The plan also seeks to address the “last mile” problem that exists where homes and jobs that are near (within two miles) transit stops but not within walking distance. With new fixed route or demand response service, all residents and workers near transit could access the station with no more than a 5 minute walk to the station or to connecting service.

Objectives:

• All Traffic Analysis Zones with a density of 15 persons per developed acre will be served by fixed route transit.
• Bus or other services are available (5 minute walk) for all residents and employees who live or work within two miles of a commuter rail station.
• In each municipality, average commuting time by transit to the municipality where the largest share of residents work will be equal or better than commuting time by car.
• The region will fully implement all transit projects in the State Implementation Plan (SIP).