Getting Around
Public Transportation
The MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) operates an extensive network of subways, buses, trolleys, and trains throughout the Boston area. The most widely-used branch of the MBTA is the subway system, affectionately known as the “T.” Here are some things to keep in mind:
- The T operates between 5:30 a.m. and 1:00 a.m., although some routes may begin later or end earlier. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the final subway and bus trips to your area so you don’t find yourself stranded late at night.
- You can purchase a comprehensive MBTA map at the information booth at Park Street Station. Most T stations distribute free maps of the basic transit routes.
- If you have a Charlie Card, the usual subway fare is $2.00. The usual bus fare is $1.50.
- To ride the bus you need exact change or an electronic debit card called a Charlie Card.
- To ride the subway, you must have a Charlie Card or buy an electronic ticket at the station kiosk.
- A monthly “link pass” (subway plus bus) is $70.00.
- UMass Boston students can purchase discounted MBTA passes through the Office of Student Activities and Leadership. Click here for more information.
- The closest subway stop to UMass Boston is the JFK/UMass station on the Red Line. There is a shuttle bus available from the station to campus.
For more information on the MBTA, including fares and schedules, visit their website at www.mbta.com.
Bicycles
The relatively compact size of the Boston area makes biking a popular mode of transportation. Navigating this busy urban community by bicycle has its risks, however. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- During the late spring, summer, and fall, a bicycle can be one of the most efficient forms of transportation. Snow piles, ice, and freezing temperatures make biking impractical—and dangerous—in winter and early spring.
- Bicycling in Boston traffic is a challenge any time of the year. You need to be careful of other vehicles and pedestrians.
- Bicycle theft is rampant in the Boston area. As a first step, invest in a good bike lock.
- Always wear a helmet and obey traffic laws
The University of Massachusetts Boston has partnered with the city of Boston to install a Hubway bike-sharing kiosk on campus, giving students, faculty, staff, and community members the opportunity to rent bicycles and pedal between an array of stations throughout Boston. For more information on Hubway, click here to visit their website.
Driving & Parking
Owning a car in the Boston area provides some degree of freedom, but less than you might think. Heavy traffic and a severe lack of parking around the city (not every apartment comes with a parking space) can make driving an undesirable option. If you are thinking about moving to housing that is not accessible by MBTA, consider what is required to drive to and from UMass Boston:
- State law requires that all out-of-state cars operated in Massachusetts for more than 30 days a year be registered with the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
- If you plan to park at UMass Boston, be sure to allow yourself time to find a space and walk to your destination on the campus. Remember that traffic may be very heavy, and space may be limited, especially at the beginning of the semester. Click here to visit the Parking On Campus website for more information.
- Members of the community who want the conveniences of a car but not the hassles should consider car-sharing services like Zipcar and GoLoco.
Shuttles
UMass Boston offers a shuttle service to and from the JFK/UMass subway station on the red line. For more information, including the shuttle schedule, click here.
