Last updated: 12/1/21

New Mobility

The New Mobility team makes policy and tests new ideas. We manage transportation programs that are technology driven, on-demand, and shared.

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The way we travel is changing. On-demand and shared mobility services have introduced new travel choices. At the same time, more purchases are being made online and delivered to our doorsteps. This has created increasing competition for space on our streets and at the curb. In the years to come the number of delivery vehicles will increase. Studies show by as much as 36% by 2030, resulting in a 32% increase in vehicle emissions, and 21 minutes added to commute times (Hidden and in Plain Sight). The City of Boston has a goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. To reach this goal the City must get more people walking, biking, and taking public transit. Vehicles that remain on the road must be zero emissions.

New Mobility is improving transportation. We partner with private service providers of new transportation options. We ensure these services compliment our most important transportation modes. These include walking, biking and public transit.
New Mobility is modernizing our approach to curb management. We pilot new technologies and new regulations. We look for ways our curbs can serve the most number of people, not number of vehicles.
New Mobility is preparing the city for a zero emission future. We increase access to electric vehicle charging, and make it easier to operate and own an EV in the City.
New mobility is addressing the growing threat from delivery vehicles and on-demand services. We pilot programs and test new technologies to improve the delivery of goods.

Have questions? Contact:

Transportation
617-635-4680
newmobility@boston.gov
1 CITY HALL SQUARE, ROOM 721

BOSTON, MA 02201-2026

New Mobility Principles

Contact: Transportation

Principle 1: It is safe to walk, bike, and take public transit in our city

We focus on the movement of people and support Bostonian’s primary ways of getting around. This includes on foot, in a wheelchair, on a bike or scooter, on a bus, or by rail
We invest in new mobility services that connect with the public transportation system
We make decisions that make our streets safer for all users

Principle 2: The future of transportation is zero emissions

We invest in Zero Emission Vehicle infrastructure
We provide resources and information that make it easier to own a Zero Emission Vehicle
We increase transportation choice and reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMTs)
We promote the use of e-bikes and other small e-mobility vehicles

Principle 3: The decision making process is inclusive and transparent

We hold public forums that inform policy and decision making
We provide information on a projects purpose and timeline
We make data accessible and easy to understand
We follow the best practices for data collection, and storage

Principle 4: the social costs of new mobility programs is dealt with

We see racism as the cause of under-investment in black, brown, and immigrant communities
We work to provide new mobility services that improve life in these communities
We require mobility services be accessible to all residents and visitors
We only contract with service providers that pay a living wage
We give first priority to local and minority owned businesses
We are listening, learning, and growing

Principle 5: innovation and new technology is driving the future of transportation

We support the quick implementation of pilot projects to test new ideas
We are open to explore new technologies and new concepts
We welcome the private sector in a partnership to advance new transportation choices