The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority (MWRTA) is updating its fare collection system for the Catch Connect micro transit service and MWRTA Fixed Route buses.
Beginning on May 2, 2022 the MWRTA will no longer accept fare payments through CharlieCards. Instead, riders on Catch Connect vehicles or MWRTA fixed route buses can pay with a new Catch Card that is integrated into the MWRTA Catch App.
CharlieCard fare boxes on all fixed route buses will be replaced with the new card validators and cash collection boxes, giving these riders the option to pay by phone with the Catch App, pay with the new Catch Card, or pay with cash.
Fare prices for the MWRTA Fixed Route bus service will remain unchanged from pre-COVID. Catch Cards can be purchased at the MWRTA Central Hub at 15 Blandin Avenue in Framingham.
The new system will enable more convenient and accessible payment options, faster boarding times, and more efficient data collection by the MWRTA. Learn more about the new MWRTA Fare System.
The MWRTA introduced the Catch Connect as a free, pilot program in 2021. Similar to Uber and Lyft, Catch Connect provides curb-to-curb ride share services in and around Wellesley, and to 
the following nearby locations:
- Newton Wellesley Hospital
- Woodland and Waban MBTA stops
- Natick Community Center
- Volante Farms & Trader Joes, Needham
Users either book rides by downloading the MWRTA Catch App on a smartphone, setting up an account and booking rides via the app. Once in effect, fares for Catch Connect service will be fixed at $2.00 per one-way trip and will be paid directly through the Catch App, or by pre-loading funds onto an MWRTA account.
Users may also book rides by calling the MWRTA support center at 508-283-5083.
For complete details about the new fare system, visit the MWRTA website or email the MWRTA at info@mwrta.com