Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Public Transportation Service in Worcester, MA
The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) has served Central Massachusetts since 1974, providing safe, reliable, and accessible public transportation to Worcester and 36 surrounding communities. Our fleet of 54 buses, including clean diesel and hybrid models, connects residents to workplaces, schools, healthcare facilities, and leisure destinations through 50+ fixed routes. WRTA offers specialized paratransit services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, ensuring equitable mobility access. As the nation's longest-standing fare-free transit system, we maintain affordability through federal CARES Act funds and Massachusetts state support. Governed by a 37-member advisory board representing local municipalities, we operate a $34 million budget covering infrastructure, maintenance, and community engagement initiatives.Our 150,000-square-foot maintenance facility supports sustainable operations, while the Central Hub at 60 Foster Street provides centralized administrative services and real-time transit information. Despite challenges like aging infrastructure and funding fluctuations, WRTA demonstrates resilience through partnerships with government agencies, advocacy groups, and the public. We maintain critical transportation connections at Union Station with MBTA commuter rail, intercity buses, taxis, and Amtrak services. Our current Administrator, Joshua Rickman, leads day-to-day operations under advisory board oversight. Through continuous innovation and community-focused planning, WRTA remains vital to regional economic growth and connectivity.
Services
Fixed-Route Buses
Paratransit Services
Travel Training
Bus Tracking
Customer Service
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We've provided regional transit services since 1974
- Our system remains fare-free through federal and state funding
- We operate 50+ routes connecting 37 Massachusetts communities
- Our paratransit services serve seniors and individuals with disabilities
- We maintain $34 million annual operations with transparent funding sources
Services
Fixed-Route Buses
Our 50+ fixed-route buses connect Worcester and 36 surrounding communities through reliable, fare-free transportation. Routes include major destinations like Worcester State University, UMass Medical Center, and Auburn Mall. Vehicles feature real-time arrival updates and accessible design for all passengers.
Paratransit Services
We provide door-to-door transportation for seniors aged 60+ and individuals with disabilities. Registered users can book trips through dedicated phone lines, with vehicles equipped for wheelchair accessibility and mobility assistance.
Travel Training
Our free program teaches residents to navigate the bus system independently. Instructors accompany riders during initial trips, offering personalized guidance for regular commuters and first-time users of public transportation.
Bus Tracking
The new bus tracking system provides real-time location updates through digital maps and mobile apps. Passengers receive accurate arrival estimates at designated stops, improving commute planning efficiency.
Customer Service
Our customer service center assists with route planning, service updates, and feedback submissions. Representatives are available via phone, email, or in-person during extended weekday hours at the Central Hub.
People
Joshua Rickman
Administrator
Joshua Rickman leads day-to-day operations as WRTA Administrator, appointed by the 37-member advisory board. He oversees service implementation, budget management, and community partnerships to maintain efficient regional transit services.
Questions
Is WRTA currently fare-free?
Yes, WRTA has maintained fare-free operations through June 2026 using federal CARES Act funds and Massachusetts state support.
How many routes do you offer?
We operate 50+ fixed routes connecting Worcester and 36 surrounding communities across Central Massachusetts.
How can I book paratransit services?
Call (508) 752-9283 or toll-free (877) 743-3852 to book paratransit trips. Registered users can also contact WRTA Van Division at (508) 453-3423 for ride confirmations.
What are your customer service hours?
Customer service is available Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Closed Sundays.
Where is your main facility located?
Our Central Hub at 60 Foster Street, Worcester, MA 01608 houses administrative offices, customer service, and real-time transit information displays.
How is WRTA funded?
We receive 75% of operating funds from Massachusetts state support, 15-20% from regional city assessments, and maintain fare-free status through federal CARES Act allocations.
Reviews (1)
Mojo
Jun 15, 2017
Report
The Worcester Regional Transit Center local buses, long destination buses, and a train station. It's always very clean and secured by security. There is a Dunkin Donuts as well as a snack stand and vending machines.
