Above, a photo of the Mission Hill LINK bus service that has already launched and is operational in the neighborhood. Courtesy photo
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The City of Boston intends to launch a new, private bus service to connect neighborhoods in Mattapan and Roxbury with a free “last mile” shuttle service that would help commuters connect more easily to commercial districts and transit hubs.
The five new LINK lines, paid for with $11.5 million in federal funds, would be deployed by 2027. Two of the lines would be in Mattapan and Roxbury and would likely connect neighborhoods to Blue Hill Avenue and Mattapan Square station – though the routes have not yet been finalized.
The goal of LINK service is to complement the MBTA by closing targeted transportation gaps, improving connections to transit stations, and serving destinations that can be difficult to reach through the existing network. The MBTA supported the City’s application for the federal funds.
“Boston is a city of incredible opportunities, but residents must have more reliable and affordable transportation for every family to build their fullest lives and strengthen our community,” said Wu in a statement. “The Link Bus program will bring free transportation services directly into our neighborhoods, strengthen connections to the MBTA, and make it easier to get to work, school, appointments, and local businesses. We are grateful to our federal, state, and community partners for helping build a transportation network that works for everyone.”
The shuttle service will provide “last-mile service” along an established route between residential neighborhoods and transit stops, particularly in areas where transit is lacking, and resident frequently have to walk longer distances to access a stop. Anyone may board free of charge to take advantage of the service to connect to a transit hub more easily.
Three other LINK services in Allston-Brighton, Charlestown/Lower Mystic River, and the South Boston Waterfront are part of Transportation Management Association (TMA) programs that are funded by businesses, universities, hospitals and other institutions as part of their official transportation agreements with the city.
The Lower Mystic LINK is already partially operational and would add Charlestown to the route. A Mission Hill LINK bus is already fully operational.
The Mattapan and Roxbury LINK buses were approved by the city’s Economic Development and Industrial Corporation (EDIC) on Sept. 17 and now the city and its partners will move forward to put out a bid for the service, enter into a contract, start community engagement, and prepare for a 2027 launch.
The routes, stops, schedules, and service models for Mattapan and Roxbury will be finalized after working with residents, businesses, elected officials, and community organizations, city officials said.
“LINK Bus services will complement the MBTA by filling targeted first-mile and last-mile gaps and connecting people more directly to the regional transit network,” said Chris Osgood, interim chief of streets. “Each service will reflect its neighborhood while sharing a commitment to being free, accessible, reliable, and open to everyone.”
The $11.5 million for the LINK bus program comes from the Federal Highway Administration’s Congestion Relief Program via the state Department of Transportation (MassDOT). The funding is part of a broader $21.6 million LINKUP Greater Boston award that includes $10 million to expand Bluebikes and more access to e-bikes.
Copyright © 2026 Boston Neighborhood News, Inc. This content may not be re-published or re-used without written permission.
