Who decides when and where expansion of the transit system occurs?
The MBTA and other transit agencies monitor the performance of their systems and conduct studies, such as the MBTA Program for Mass Transportation, to identify unmet needs and new markets for transit service. Each potential expansion project undergoes an extensive planning process conducted by the staff of the state agency that would be carrying out the project, consultants, and state planning officials in consultation with the public. Ideas are examined in detail in a major investment study to determine their feasibility. If a feasible preferred alternative emerges, the agency identifies funding, and may apply for federal New Starts funds, which are awarded by the Federal Transit Administration in a competitive process.
