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New Mobility

The New Mobility team makes policy and tests new ideas. We manage transportation programs that are technology driven, on-demand, and shared.

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The way we travel is changing. On-demand and shared mobility services have introduced new travel choices. At the same time, more purchases are being made online and delivered to our doorsteps. This has created increasing competition for space on our streets and at the curb. In the years to come the number of delivery vehicles will increase. Studies show by as much as 36% by 2030, resulting in a 32% increase in vehicle emissions, and 21 minutes added to commute times (Hidden and in Plain Sight). The City of Boston has a goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. To reach this goal the City must get more people walking, biking, and taking public transit. Vehicles that remain on the road must be zero emissions.
  •  New Mobility is improving transportation. We partner with private service providers of new transportation options. We ensure these services compliment our most important transportation modes. These include walking, biking and public transit.
  • New Mobility is modernizing our approach to curb management. We pilot new technologies and new regulations. We look for ways our curbs can serve the most number of people, not number of vehicles.
  • New Mobility is preparing the city for a zero emission future. We increase access to electric vehicle charging, and make it easier to operate and own an EV in the City.
  • New mobility is addressing the growing threat from delivery vehicles and on-demand services. We pilot programs and test new technologies to improve the delivery of goods.

New Mobility Principles

Contact: Transportation
Principle 1: It is safe to walk, bike, and take public transit in our city
  • We focus on the movement of people and support Bostonian’s primary ways of getting around. This includes on foot, in a wheelchair, on a bike or scooter, on a bus, or by rail
  • We invest in new mobility services that connect with the public transportation system
  • We make decisions that make our streets safer for all users
Principle 2: The future of transportation is zero emissions
  • We invest in Zero Emission Vehicle infrastructure
  • We provide resources and information that make it easier to own a Zero Emission Vehicle
  • We increase transportation choice and reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMTs)
  • We promote the use of e-bikes and other small e-mobility vehicles
Principle 3: The decision making process is inclusive and transparent
  • We hold public forums that inform policy and decision making
  • We provide information on a projects purpose and timeline
  • We make data accessible and easy to understand
  • We follow the best practices for data collection, and storage
Principle 4: the social costs of new mobility programs is dealt with
  • We see racism as the cause of under-investment in black, brown, and immigrant communities
  • We work to provide new mobility services that improve life in these communities
  • We require mobility services be accessible to all residents and visitors
  • We only contract with service providers that pay a living wage
  • We give first priority to local and minority owned businesses
  • We are listening, learning, and growing
Principle 5: innovation and new technology is driving the future of transportation
  • We support the quick implementation of pilot projects to test new ideas
  • We are open to explore new technologies and new concepts
  • We welcome the private sector in a partnership to advance new transportation choices

New Mobility Programs

Recharge Boston

Recharge Boston is the City's zero emission vehicle program

Curb Management

The City of Boston is implementing flexible curb management strategies. Our goal is to improve safety and adapt to changing demands.

GoHubs!

GoHubs! make it easier to make multi-modal trips.

Performance Parking

Adjusting meter rates based on demand

Autonomous Vehicles

Boston supports the testing of autonomous vehicles on our city streets

Mopeds and Scooters

Mopeds, motirized bikes, and limited use vehicles

Documents and Resources

Documents and Resources
Contact: Transportation
Zero Emission Vehicle Roadmap

Past Programs

Autonomous Vehicles

Learn more about our plans for testing autonomous vehicles, and their potential future in the City of Boston.

Pick Up and Drop Off Zones Pilot in Fenway

The pilot program in the Fenway dedicates curb space for pick-ups and drop-offs for all passenger vehicles, including ride-hail vehicles like Uber and Lyft.

Creating space at the curb for ride-hail vehicles to safely pick-up and drop-off passengers

Who's Involved:

Transportation
617-635-4680
New Urban Mechanics
617-635-0044
Innovation and Technology
617-635-4783
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