Worcester Regional Transit Authority
Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) is a public, non-profit organization charged with providing public transportation to the city of Worcester, Massachusetts and the surrounding towns. The WRTA was created in September 1974 under Chapter 161B of the Massachusetts General Laws. This act also created several other regional transit authorities in Massachusetts, including the Greater Attleboro-Taunton Regional Transit Authority and the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority among others; in terms of ridership, the WRTA is the second largest regional transit authority and third largest transit system in Massachusetts.
A WRTA route 27 bus at Auburn Mall in 2017 | |
| Founded | 1974 |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | WRTA Garage - 42 Quinsagamond Avenue WRTA Hub - 60 Foster St. |
| Locale | Worcester, Massachusetts |
| Service type | bus service, paratransit |
| Operator | Central Mass Transit Management |
| Website | therta.com |
WRTA buses have been free to ride since 2020, making it the longest-running fare-free system of public transportation in the United States. Currently, the fare-free program is extended until at least June 2024.