MBTA Amplifies Youth Voices for Autism Month
MBTA plays 30 PSAs created by local youth with autism in stations during April
MBTA Plays Youth PSAs for Autism Month
MBTA riders are hearing a new voice on station announcements this month as the transit system plays 30 public service messages created by local youth with autism spectrum disorder. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority is participating in the Autism Transit Project for the third consecutive year, officials said. Throughout April, the announcements focus on safety reminders and promoting kindness among riders.
Context & Background
The Autism Transit Project was founded by Jonathan Trichter in 2022 and recognizes the deep connection many children with autism have to mass transit. The initiative empowers children with autism spectrum disorder to create public service announcements for transit systems nationwide. This year's participating agencies include BART, NJ Transit, WMATA, CTA, and the MBTA. The MBTA joined the national program in 2024 alongside other major transit agencies.
Key Details
Phillip Eng, MBTA General Manager and CEO, expressed pride in supporting young people with autism and their contributions to the transit system. The 30 announcements created by local youth with ASD are playing in stations across the system throughout April. The messages cover safety reminders and encourage kindness among riders. To show gratitude to participating youth and their families, the MBTA hosted a reception at its downtown headquarters.
Timeline & Implementation
The announcements began playing in MBTA stations at the start of April in recognition of Autism Acceptance Month. The MBTA first joined the Autism Transit Project in 2024, making this the third consecutive year of participation. Officials haven't said whether the announcements will continue beyond April or if the program will return next year.
Rider Impact & Moovit
Allison Taylor, whose daughter Ella participated, shared that the program makes her daughter feel confident and accepted. Riders can expect to hear the youth-created announcements throughout April at stations across the MBTA system. The messages aim to promote safety awareness and kindness among transit users. Moovit provides real-time updates and service information for MBTA routes throughout the Boston area.
