The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has announced revisions to its paratransit service, The RIDE, easing restrictions on the belongings that elderly and disabled riders can bring on board. The updated policy, released Wednesday, restores allowances for passengers to keep items inside RIDE trunks and foldable carts, a change that follows widespread criticism of the agency's rules introduced last August.
The previous regulations required riders to confine all possessions within their seated area, prohibiting the use of carts and vehicle trunks for storage. The MBTA had implemented these measures citing safety concerns and the need to make trips faster and more comfortable for the approximately 4,000 weekly users who depend on the shared door-to-door service. Officials argued that limiting bags would ensure sufficient space for wheelchairs and walkers and prevent damage to groceries during transit.
However, the policy faced significant backlash from riders and advocacy groups who said the restrictions disrupted daily routines and hindered independence. Some users reported being stranded due to having too many belongings and others avoided essential errands, such as grocery shopping, because of the limitations. At a July MBTA board meeting, around 50 RIDE patrons voiced their frustrations directly.
Daniela Depina, a visually impaired RIDE user and transportation advocate, criticized the original rule changes for disregarding riders’ needs, particularly by removing shopping carts in the name of safety without adequate consultation. Advocacy groups like the Massachusetts Senior Action Council also raised concerns, emphasizing that The RIDE functions as more than just a transportation service for many users.
Under the new guidelines, riders may again use foldable carts measuring up to 23 inches by 22 inches by 41 inches, and the agency plans to install luggage racks in RIDE vehicles. When booking a trip, riders will have the option to indicate if they are bringing luggage or a shopping cart, helping the MBTA manage space efficiently.
The updated policy explicitly states that riders will never be required to hold all belongings on their laps, addressing a key complaint from users. To further assist, the MBTA will provide large, zippered grocery bags for safely storing items during trips. The agency also cautioned that travelers with excessive baggage might still face limitations, and in cases where vehicle space is insufficient, drivers will contact paratransit dispatch to find a solution.
Phil Eng, the MBTA general manager and interim Massachusetts transportation secretary, expressed gratitude to advocacy groups for their input and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to providing safe, reliable transportation while engaging in ongoing dialogue with riders.
Carolyn Villers, executive director of the Massachusetts Senior Action Council, welcomed the changes as a critical correction that acknowledges the lived experiences of paratransit users, highlighting that collaboration between the MBTA and the community led to this outcome.
The MBTA’s policy reversal aims to balance safety and accessibility as it continues efforts to improve The RIDE service for those with mobility challenges.