MBTA to Begin Operating Fare Gates at North Station on October 1st

North Station fare gates will begin operation on Saturday, October 1st 2022. At that point, passengers will need a ticket to enter and exit the gated area at North Station. The new gate system will allow the MBTA to better integrate the Commuter Rail’s network and ticketing system with those of the T’s other transit modes, and provide the following rider benefits:

  • No more platform-door ticket checks
  • Improves fare collection
  • A more consistent fare-paying experience across transit modes

Fare Gates accept all existing fare media for the Commuter Rail, they do not deduct stored value from a CharlieCard. For Commuter Rail monthly pass holders who receive a CharlieCard, the gates will accept their pass if the printed zone is displayed. For more information about how the fare gates work, what fare media they accept, and a “how to” videos for passengers visit: MBTA.com/CRfaregates.

Passengers should hold on to their tickets for the duration of their trip. The Commuter Rail has a zone-based fare system, with each zone requiring a different fare, therefore passengers will be expected to validate their tickets at the fare gates upon entry and exit. Conductors will also confirm on board that passengers have purchased fares for the correct zone.

Riders will notice the following fare collection changes:

  • Riders will be required to tap, scan, or swipe their tickets or passes both to enter and to exit the platform area at North Station.
  • Riders who enter through the gates will still need to show tickets to conductors on board to verify ticket zone. Riders who do not enter through the gates will need to show tickets to conductors to validate.
  • Inbound riders who arrive at North Station without tickets will be required to purchase them through the mTicket app or from a staff member stationed at the gates before exiting.
  • Fare Gates will be active during the regular service hours of the Commuter Rail, and only when there is staff on-site who is able to provide support.

Before the gates are activated, passengers will have the opportunity to try the gates and experience the process for entering and exiting. Staff will be available in station to help any passengers needing assistance navigating the concourse. Keolis is also partnering with rider groups such as Massachusetts Commission for the Blind to host guided previews of gate functionality ahead of activation.

The layout features 30 gates installed around the concourse area, including nine wider, accessible gates that allow sufficient room for wheelchairs, scooters, bicycles, luggage, and strollers. Further, this layout will accommodate an even greater number of Commuter Rail riders than was typical before the pandemic, improving movement through the station, and reducing crowding when a train’s departure track is announced.