MeVa’s new Route #28 is gaining momentum, with ridership continuing to increase each month since service launched on April 6, 2026.

The fare free route, which connects Lawrence and Methuen with key destinations in Salem, recorded 3,231 rides during its first month of service in April. Ridership increased to 4,056 rides in May and climbed again to 4,342 rides in June.

In just three months, Route #28 provided 11,629 rides, with monthly ridership increasing by more than 34 percent from April to June.

This continued growth marks a strong start for the new regional connection. The pilot program is already providing thousands of riders each month with access to jobs, healthcare, shopping, and other destinations throughout Lawrence, Methuen, and Salem.

Route #28 was launched by Merrimack Valley Transit, also known as MeVa, through funding from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Connectivity Grant Program. The service remains completely fare free for riders.

As ridership continues to grow, Route #28 is demonstrating an increasing demand for affordable and convenient regional transportation connecting Salem with communities across the Massachusetts border.

For more information about MeVa service in Salem, please visit the MeVa Merrimack Valley Transit webpage