Daily brief · Fenway, Boston, MA
MBTA to pilot cheaper fares, free 75+ rides
August 16, 2026
Top story
Three MBTA fare pilot programs set to launch in September
The MBTA says three fare pilot programs begin in September 2026. Express bus fares drop from $4.25 to $1.70, matching reduced local bus rates; a two-hour transfer window will let riders switch between bus, subway and ferry while paying only the highest single-leg fare, replacing the current limit of two free transfers. Riders 75 and older who do not hold a driver's license will be eligible for free travel on bus, subway, Commuter Rail and ferry through a partnership with the RMV.
Watertown News
Dominican Parade & Festival fills Franklin Park today
New England's largest Dominican heritage celebration steps off from Hyde Square at 11 a.m. today and continues with a festival at Franklin Park until 9 p.m.; police have issued safety guidelines for attendees.
Boston Police Department
116th Fisherman's Feast concludes in North End
The 116th Annual Fisherman's Feast concludes today with a grand procession at 12:30 p.m. and the 'Flight of the Angel' at 8 p.m. on North and Fleet Streets.
The Boston Calendar
Mayor Wu says feds won't respond to Boston's ICE questions
Mayor Michelle Wu said on GBH's Boston Public Radio Wednesday that her administration has repeatedly asked the federal government about ICE operations in Boston, including through FOIA requests, without getting a response.
GBH News
Sonny Gray leads Red Sox to 4-0 shutout over Pirates
Red Sox starter Sonny Gray earned his career-high 15th win of the season Saturday, leading a 4-0 shutout over the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park.
CBS Sports
Keanu Reeves' band Dogstar plays House of Blues in Fenway
Alternative rock trio Dogstar, featuring actor-bassist Keanu Reeves, plays Citizens House of Blues on Lansdowne Street tonight as part of their 'All In Now' North American tour.
The Boston Calendar
Quincy celebrates 39th Annual August Moon Festival
The 39th annual Quincy August Moon Festival runs today from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Coddington Street, with food, games, and cultural performances.
The Boston Calendar
35 Massachusetts beaches closed over bacteria this weekend
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health closed 35 beaches statewide this weekend due to elevated bacteria levels and harmful algae blooms.
Boston.com
Comedian Jamie Lissow brings 'Better Off Dad' tour to Wilbur
Comedian Jamie Lissow performs his 'Better Off Dad' stand-up show at the Wilbur Theatre tonight.
The Boston Calendar
Wentworth student design showcase concludes at Sculptors Gallery
The Wentworth Institute of Technology student exhibition 'W.I.T. @ Work: The Art of Industrial Design' closes today at the Sculptors Gallery.
The Boston Calendar
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