Boston Seeking Input, And Candidates, For MBTA Board

Calling all Bostonians who have ever thought, perhaps partway through an insufferable commute, about what the MBTA could improve: the city wants to hear from you.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu on Wednesday broadcast a call for public input about the oversight work performed by the MBTA Board of Directors and the role that the city, which will soon gain its own seat on the panel, should play.

“Boston’s now on the MBTA Board. Help shape our voice,” Wu tweeted. “Share your ideas, submit your name for consideration, or recommend someone who would be a great member of the MBTA Board of Directors at http://boston.gov/mbta-board by September 5 at 5PM.”

Her office circulated a Google form asking participants to “share your ideas, hopes, and concerns with Mayor Wu and the new MBTA Board of Directors member.” Those interested in serving on the board can also indicate that on the form, or email a resume to mbtaboard@boston.gov.

The fiscal year 2024 budget Gov. Maura Healey signed last week expands the seven-member board to a nine-member board, adding one seat that will be appointed by Boston’s mayor and another the governor will pick. The person chosen by the governor must be a municipal official representing a city or town within the MBTA’s service area.

Transit advocates and elected officials in Boston had previously spent years unsuccessfully pushing to give direct representation on the board to the capital city, which is home to much of the MBTA’s core subway infrastructure, many of its bus routes and major commuter rail hubs.