The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's CapeFlyer — a seasonal weekend passenger train service that connects Boston's South Station to Cape Cod — had its best summer on record.
Here's what to know
Since the route launched in 2013, it's never been busier. MassLive reported that 16,045 passengers used the CapeFlyer during its summer service window — up 7% from 2005.
Covering the Boston-to-Hyannis route, the weekend train takes two hours, 40 minutes, bypassing major traffic into the Cape. Its schedule includes a Friday evening round trip plus Saturday and Sunday runs that leave Boston in the morning and return from Hyannis at night.
For riders boarding in the Cape Cod Canal, fares could be as low as $5 one-way or $8 round-trip. From Boston, tickets were $22 one-way and $40 round-trip, while kids 11 and under rode free. Dogs were also allowed onboard, the outlet noted.
"Massachusetts and the Cape have so much to offer, and we're pleased that so many left their cars at home and took advantage of CapeFlyer service this season," Interim Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng said.
More background
The CapeFlyer is operated through a partnership involving the MBTA, Keolis, and the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority.
TCD Picks » Quince Spotlight
💡These best-sellers from Quince deliver affordable, sustainable luxury for all
MassLive said commuter rail ridership has recovered from coronavirus pandemic-era declines faster than the MBTA's subway and bus service — a rebound the agency described as one of the strongest in the country.
What's being done?
Beyond the CapeFlyer, the MBTA also pointed to heavier summer weekend use on the Newburyport-Rockport Line and to its push for added train service to Salem during October's Haunted Happenings.
As part of the ridership rebound, the agency promoted a $10 pass for unlimited commuter rail trips.
"This season's ridership numbers confirm what we've known for years — the CapeFlyer has become an essential part of the Cape Cod summer experience," said John Kennedy, administrator of the CCRTA.
Where can I learn more?
The CapeFlyer's record season proves that travelers are looking for ways around traffic and are open to using their cars less. These stories explore how policy changes are shaping the way people get around, from passenger rails to scooters and bike lanes.
• In California, a record-breaking hydrogen passenger train is carrying riders with zero emissions.
• Across cities worldwide, e-scooters are cutting traffic while lowering transportation-related pollution.
• In urban corridors, protected bike lanes nearly doubled ridership.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
