Janey Launches Pilot Program To Make One Of The T's Bus Routes Free

Acting Boston Kim Janey is set to announce a pilot program Monday to make a busy MBTA bus route fare-free.

The city and the T have spent months working out details to make the 28 bus route free. It runs between Roxbury and Mattapan.

Some politicians and advocates want to remove fares from the entire MBTA bus system. Supporters say the benefits would include faster boarding, and a reduction in air pollution from idling engines.

But it would also cost an estimated $60 million a year in lost revenue.

Later this week, state lawmakers are set to examine a bill that would require the T and other regional transit agencies to begin a year-long pilot program for free bus service.