Lydia Edwards is a champion for a modern, equitable, and sustainable transportation system in Massachusetts. As an East Boston resident, she understands the profound impact that reliable transit has on people’s lives—connecting individuals to jobs, schools, healthcare, and community. As a member of the Senate Transportation Committee, she fights to invest in infrastructure, enhance ferry and bus services, expand low-income fare programs, and remove economic barriers to mobility. Her work ensures that public transit is accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of all residents.

How Lydia Has Delivered

Expanded Ferry Service for East Boston & Winthrop

• In early 2025, Lydia successfully secured state funding for planning and constructing a dock at the East Boston Designated Port Area. Shortly after, she led efforts that doubled weekday ferry trips from Winthrop to Boston, reducing commute times by roughly 30 minutes—an impactful improvement for coastal commuters.

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Affordable Transit via Low‑Income Fare Legislation

• Lydia co-led and publicly advocated for state legislation requiring the MBTA to implement a low‑income fare, resonating with riders, transit workers, and coalition partners. She emphasized that “mobility is essential” and championed riders’ ability to access transit for a “decent amount of money.”

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Bringing Transportation Maintenance Dollars to Schools

• As co-sponsor of Senate Bill S.348, Lydia is promoting “in‑district transportation funding” for students, aimed at ensuring schools and districts have dedicated resources to maintain safe and reliable bus service.

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Active Role on Transportation Committee

• As a member of the Senate Transportation Committee, Lydia is helping to shape statewide policy on infrastructure, fare equity, and mobility access. She pushed to include ferry transit in the state’s commuter tax relief program and coordinated a $30 million bond authorization for an intra-harbor commuter ferry system connecting Gloucester, Salem, Lynn, Winthrop, East Boston, and the Seaport—expanding affordable, sustainable transit options across the region.