BIG CHANGES ARE PULLING UP SOON!
For more than 50 years, MeVa riders have been able to flag the bus along the route wherever it is safe for the driver to stop. Longtime riders know the routine , but for new riders, visitors, and anyone still learning the system, it can feel a little confusing.
That’s why MeVa is getting ready to make riding even easier with designated bus stops across our service area.
These new stops will help make our free public transit system more welcoming, predictable, safe, and easy to use, whether you ride every day or are hopping on for the first time.
ESSEX AND COMMON STREET BUS STOP PILOT PROGRAM
To kick off the transition from a flag-stop system to fixed bus stops, we’re starting right in the heart of downtown Lawrence. As part of this effort, MeVa will begin installing advance notices on Monday, May 4 along Essex Street and Common Street between Union Street and Broadway to inform the public of the upcoming pilot. Here is an example of the advance notice sign: https://mevatransit.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/bus-stop-notice.jpg
The pilot program will officially begin on May 18, 2026, and will include approximately 20 bus stop locations along the Essex and Common Street corridors. These locations will be marked with temporary signage explaining the program and identifying the routes served. Once the pilot program begins, buses will stop only at these designated locations within the corridor. Throughout May and June, MeVa staff will be riding buses to educate passengers, in addition to holding community engagement activities, as well as education and outreach events. There will be multiple feedback opportunities, both in person and online. This phased approach is designed to test proposed stop locations in real conditions, gather input from riders, residents, businesses, and municipal partners, and make adjustments based on safety, accessibility, and operational considerations.
We recognize that this transition represents a change, particularly for riders accustomed to flagging buses close to their origin or destination. MeVa is approaching this process thoughtfully by using temporary signage, actively collecting feedback, and working closely with municipal partners, including the Department of Public Works, before finalizing permanent stop locations. Feedback will play a critical role in determining whether selected stop locations are safe, visible, accessible, and convenient. Following the pilot, MeVa will refine stop locations and coordinate the installation of permanent infrastructure and future amenities such as shelters, benches, and improved accessibility features.
We will continue to update this page throughout the process! If you have questions or concerns you can email us at busstops@mevatransit.com, fill out the form here (HYPERLINK) or contacting our office directly. We want to hear from you!
What Riders Should Know During the Pilot
During the Essex and Common Street pilot and future bus stop pilots:
In areas not yet included in a bus stop pilot or designated stop program, MeVa’s current flag-stop policy may still apply unless otherwise posted.
Temporary signs show where permanent stops may be located in the future.
Riders should use the posted temporary bus stop signs in the pilot area.
Proposed stop locations are not final. Some stops may change based on feedback, outreach, and final safety review.
MeVa will continue gathering input before final decisions are made.