The MBTA, in conjunction with the Executive Office of Transportation
(EOT), the City of Boston, and members of the State Legislature is
planning to implement improvements to MBTA Bus Route 39 transit service.
This is the MBTA*s second busiest bus route and operates along a
congested five-mile corridor between Forest Hills and the Back Bay.
Making improvements to bus service systemwide is an ongoing process and
remains a high priority for the MBTA.

The improvements under consideration for the Route 39 are intended to
improve accessibility and service reliability, reduce trip times, and
improve passenger comfort and convenience. Enhancements may include
traffic signal timing adjustments, bus stop consolidation, sidewalk
improvements at bus stops, more bus stop shelters and amenities, and
improved passenger information.

Given that these changes may impact MBTA customers, as well as abutting
residences, businesses, and institutions, we plan to convene a
Citizens* Working Group (CWG) to help advise us as we move
forward.

To keep the process manageable and efficient, we plan to appoint 15 CWG
members. We are seeking individuals with a strong interest in the Route
39 and a willingness to make a firm commitment to this process. To
expedite the process, we expect that meetings will be held once or twice
per month over six months. All meetings will be open to the public and
there will be an opportunity for non-member input.

In an attempt to assemble the most productive committee possible, we
are asking interested individuals to provide us with the following
information:

1. How often do you ride Route 39 (daily, once a week, once or
twice a month, a few times a year, never)?

2. List your ideas for improving Bus Route 39.

3. Why would you be a good addition to this committee?

4. Please list any affiliations you may have with community groups,
businesses, or institutions in the neighborhoods served by the route.

5. What are the best times for you to attend working group meetings
(days of week and times)?


Please e-mail your response to me no later than September 12th.



Please note that the attached letter was mailed to over 25 advocacy
groups, neighborhood organizations and elected officials that represent
the project area. A notice will also appear in newspapers.
Please feel free to pass this e-mail onto others who might be
interested in participating in this process.

Thank you.

Erik Scheier, P.E.
Project Director
MBTA Operations & Service Development
45 High Street, Room 524
Boston, MA 02110

Tel: 617-222-3214
Cell: 617-595-6056

Fax: 617-222-3776
E-mail: escheier@mbta.com