MBTA To Use Fines To Help Improve Commuter Rail Service

BOSTON (AP) — The MBTA is using $7.5 million in fines paid by Keolis Commuter Services, the private company that runs the T's commuter rail, to improve services for riders.

The fines resulted from late trains and other performance shortcomings during Keolis' first year running the commuter rail trains — problems made worse by the winter's record snowfall.

The money will go in part to hiring more agents to collect fares.

The review of Keolis was presented Tuesday during the first meeting for the new five-member fiscal control board appointed by Gov. Charlie Baker to help stabilize oversight of the MBTA.

Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack said Tuesday's meeting marks a major first step in the state's efforts "to set the MBTA on a course of sustainability in its management, operations and finances."

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