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City says transit signal priority for MBTA buses in Union Square is feasible; design and procurement planned

2385946 · February 25, 2025

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Summary

Mobility staff told the committee it is feasible to implement transit signal priority for MBTA buses at three Union Square intersections, with design and specifications expected in the first half of the year and procurement of signal equipment to follow.

The committee heard that transit signal priority (TSP) for MBTA buses in Union Square is technically feasible and is a priority for the city and the MBTA.

Director Rawson said staff and consultants have been studying TSP at the three high‑volume Union Square intersections and that MBTA has improved its TSP standards in recent years. Rawson said the city expects to complete design and specification work in the first half of the calendar year, then move to procurement and bidding for signal equipment (more than $500,000 in equipment was referenced) to modify and upgrade the three traffic signals to prioritize buses.

Councilors asked whether infrastructure would yield more frequent service; Rawson said the MBTA’s bus network redesign already includes several high‑frequency routes through Union Square and that MBTA has committed funding and vehicles for those routes. The department said it is cautiously optimistic that TSP could be implemented in the calendar year pending design, procurement and coordination with MBTA.