The Somerville City Council approved a resolution to retain the MBTA bus Route 80 through the city. ~Photo by Bobbie Toner

By Harry Kane

The MBTA is undertaking a large-scale redesign of the entire bus network called the Better Bus Network Project. As part of the improvements, the MBTA is cutting Route 80 through Somerville, City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen explained.

A resolution to retain Route 80 was approved at the City Council meeting on Thursday, August 27.

Route 80 runs between Lechmere and Powderhouse Square along McGrath Highway. The MBTA redesign and proposed updates claim the bus route is “redundant” because of the GLX, according to the resolution.

Ewen-Campen said Route 80 is “very important.” He sponsored Alessandra Seiter from the Pedestrian and Transit Advisory Committee to speak on behalf of commuters who want to retain Route 80.

Seiter said Route 80, which connects Magoon Square to East Somerville, “runs on a corridor that is integral to civic, educational, commercial, and residential life in our city.”

The resolution states that “the GLX does not meaningfully substitute for many destinations served effectively by the 80” and that the Gilman Square GLX station is “not meaningfully accessible” to many people in wheelchairs or other mobility devices. These commuters would then “be left without public transit access if the 80 is discontinued.”

“I don’t want to see this bus leave,” said City Councilor Matthew McLaughlin. He voiced his frustration and said he thinks the community deserves more buses.

“Instead of taking away buses, we should be adding more,” said McLaughlin.

City Councilor Jesse Clingan said, “We shouldn’t be cutting out any modes of transportation, especially ones that go by some of our most vulnerable population buildings.”

City Councilor Wilfred N. Mbah said, “Any reduction or elimination of Route 80 service could disproportionately affect residents who have the fewest transportation alternatives and also undermine our broader goals for equitable and sustainable mobility.

“We need to continue to advocate for a transit system that connects neighborhoods and ensures that no resident is left behind because they cannot afford or access a car.”

The MBTA is soliciting public comment for current proposed updates through September 8.

Learn more about these potential updates and submit feedback at mbta.com/BNRupdates