The one-year pilot program launched in 2014 that extended weekend service on subways, trolleys and key bus routes never included "clear expectations," Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack told reporters Thursday.

"There was never a clear set of expectations established for late-night service: What level of subsidy was worth it? How much did we expect to see in actual increased economic activity?" Pollack said. "So we didn’t set a target, so I can’t tell you whether the pilot met expectations, because there were no clear expectations."

The Green Line was the most popular service on the pilot, which is being extended into June, and the per-passenger subsidy was $7.68, a figure Pollack said is "much higher than I would have expected."

Seeking public feedback and ideas, the MBTA is considering whether to eliminate the service, continue it with changes, charge a special late-night fare or seek increased revenue from sponsorships.

MBTA General Manager Beverly Scott declined to give a range of what she would consider a reasonable subsidy for the service.

"What would you have had that number be?" Scott asked reporters.

The MBTA will release an interim review report on the ridership, cost and revenues at the MassDOT board’s Feb. 11 meeting and a final recommendation will be included in the MBTA’s fiscal year 2016 budget presented at MassDOT’s April 15 board meeting.

Gov. Charlie Baker plans to officially swear in Pollack and state Public Safety Secretary Daniel Bennett during a ceremony in the governor’s office at 4 p.m. Friday. Baker, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito and members of his cabinet are meeting at 2 p.m. Friday.

Transportation Secretary: MBTA Pilot Failed To Include ‘Clear Expectations’

by Banker & Tradesman time to read: 1 min
0