Nearly 1 million people flood Boston every year for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Despite the influx in pedestrian traffic, 22 roads will close in accommodation of the 3.5-mile-long parade route, which travels from Andrew Square to Broadway Station in South Boston.
The MBTA announced additions to Sunday train service and free shuttle buses in anticipation of the influx of people. Below is the updated transit plan for the South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Red Line
The MBTA Red Line train will run rush hour service between 11 AM and 6 PM on Sunday, March 15. According to the MBTA, “trains may bypass Broadway station during certain times of the day due to heavy crowds.”
Free MBTA Shuttle Buses
The MBTA also announced free shuttle service between South Station and South Boston.
Between 9: 30 AM and 5 PM, free shuttle buses will provide complimentary round-trip service between South Station and South Boston. The first trip departs South Station at 9:30 AM to South Boston.
Shuttles will continue to travel to the parade throughout the day. The last trip back to South Station departs South Boston at 4:30 PM. The shuttles will travel on an as needed basis based on ridership.
- South Station Shuttle Stop: Summer Street and Atlantic Avenue
- South Boston Shuttle Stop: East 1st Street at City Point Bus Terminal
Commuter Rail
Commuter Rail trains will include additional cars to accomadate increased ridership. Guests can purchase a “weekend pass” for $10 unlimited round-trip service on all Commuter Rail trains. The following lines will run on special schedules on Parade day:
- Fairmount Line
- Fall River/New Bedford Line
- Framingham/Worcester Line
- Franklin/Foxboro Line
- Greenbush Line
- Kingston Line
- Providence/Stoughton Line
Due to increased ridership, bikes are not allowed on board the Commuter Rail on Sunday, March 15. Learn more about the new parade route and adjacent road closures.
