MBTA accessibility
As is true for most mass transit systems, much of the Boston subway and commuter rail lines were built before wheelchair access was a requirement. Fortunately, the Boston system underwent significant expansion in the 1980s and 1990s and all the new facilities are accessible. The MBTA has also refurbished many stations and these too are accessible.
Subway and commuter rail stations
Accessibility on the "T" generally means that some combination elevators and wheelchair ramps connect the street and station platform. These routes may be roundabout and are not always well marked. Ramps can be quite lengthy and the elevators are often out of service. The MBTA provides a phone number with recorded elevator, wheelchair lift and escalator updates: 1-617-222-2828 or 1-800-392-6100.
While only some subway stations have wheelchair access to the street, all subway stations have high level platforms on the same level as train car doors. Of those MBTA commuter rail stations that have wheelchair access, most only have a short elevated platform that serves one or two cars. The short ramps are located at the end of the station away from Boston. A few commuter rail stations do have full length high platforms. These include:
These stations are also among the few that have public rest rooms.
See individual station articles for more information.
Buses
The MBTA is replacing the oldest part of its fleet with new buses that have wheelchair lifts. There is a Call-A-Lift service that enables a passenger to schedule a lift bus for the following day.
The T also has paratransit program, called The Ride which provides lift-equipped vans to transport people who cannot use general public transportation because of a physical, cognitive or mental disability, including those who use wheelchairs.
Visually impared
"Service animals are allowed on the T during all hours of operation, but must be kept under control at all times. No certification is required, nor is the animal expected to wear a special harness, scarf or other identifying markings." MBTA Web site, 2004
Most, but not all, stations have yellow warning strips with bumps at the edge of the platforms.
Hearing impared
The MBTA has a TTY number for "T" information: (617) 222-5146. Many stations have TTY pay phones. The MBTA web site has a list.