MBTA investigating providing service past 1 a.m.

Posted: 01/22/13 at 10:35 pm EST      Last Updated: 01/23/13 at 10:25 am EST

BOSTON (WHDH) -- MBTA leaders are talking about a plan that would have trains running late into the night, every weekend.

For a major city like Boston, having a public transit system that shuts down at 1 a.m. has long been frustrating to riders.

“A lot of big cities, it lasts longer,” a ‘T’ rider said.

And with new focus on the ‘T's’ budget, you might think service could be cut a little more. But they're actually talking about keeping the trains running later than 1 a.m. on some nights.

“This is good because usually Boston has students so I believe it’s much better because the cabs are not available at the night,” one man said.

The ‘T’ says if money can be found, the busiest ‘T’ services -- including subways and buses -- could be a part of the pilot program.

“I think it would be a great idea for people who like to go out at night they'll have a ride home,” one woman said.

Staying open longer would cost more because the ‘T’ would be paying for extra:

-fuel and electricity
-drivers and customer service
-security and maintenance

But that could be paid for if more people use the ‘T.’ Riders seem to think it's worth it.

So does Mayor Menino, who said:

"I have advocated for restoration of the MBTA's Night Owl (bus) service since it was eliminated in 2005. The newly proposed extension…would benefit the hundreds of Boston residents who work at night and do not have public transportation options at the end of their shifts."

It's unclear how much the proposed plan would cost.

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