In December 2012, GATRA launches Ride Match, a new web-based tool that offers quick, easy access to information about transportation options for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and anyone needing to travel in Southeastern Massachusetts.
The towns of Scituate and Hanover join GATRA in 2012.
GATRA initiated life safety and energy efficiency modifications at its Taunton facility. Upgrades include egress improvements to the terminal and administrative offices building along with new energy efficient lighting, new HVAC equipment and a new Waste Oil Burner heating system in the maintenance facility.
With funding from FTA, FHA and MassDOT, construction of the Attleboro Intermodal Transportation Center (AITC) begins. The AITC includes the construction of a new bus station, a dedicated bus loop, a new access road to the MBTA lot and additional parking for commuters.
GATRA partners with the Town of Plymouth in completing a feasibility study to locate a future Intermodal Transportation Center in downtown Plymouth
2011
In fiscal year 2011, GATRA added shuttle services that take commuters in Bellingham and Pembroke to MBTA rail stations in neighboring towns.
2010
With funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, GATRA moves forward with two major construction projects: the rehabilitation of the historic Attleboro Commuter Rail Station and improvements to the Taunton Terminal building.
2009
GATRA begins operating demand response (Dial-A-Ride) service in Duxbury, Marshfield, Pembroke, and Wrentham.
2008
GATRA is the first Regional Transit Authority in the state to go green with the acquisition of two hybrid buses.
2006
In May, GATRA introduces its “Ticket to Ride” campaign to promote a new automated fare box system that allows riders to purchase passes on the bus. Also in 2006, GATRA rolls out a new photo ID system and installs video surveillance on its fixed route bus systems in Attleboro, Taunton, Plymouth, and Wareham to address security concerns.
1994
GATRA adds a new full-time travel coordinator as the travel training program continues to expand to address the travel needs of people with disabilities.
1991
Between start-up in May through June 30, Kingston Dial-A-Ride transports a record-setting 1,037 passengers.
1990
Construction of the Harry Bloom Maintenance Facility on Oak Street in Taunton is completed.
1987
In July, GATRA institutes a new half-fare policy for handicapped, elderly, and student riders.
1980
GATRA receives its first transit buses. The two 30-foot coaches, built by Transportation Manufacturing Corporation, are delivered in April and put into service in Taunton and Attleboro in May.
1979
Francis Gay is appointed as GATRA’s new Administrator.
1978
GATRA operates its first fixed-route transit service in the City of Attleboro in October with a trial including two buses. Due to its early success, the service is later expanded into Seekonk in January, 1979. In that same year, a fixed-route service begins in the City of Taunton in November and is later expanded in December.
1976
The Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA) is created in December 1976 pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 161B of the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Authority is given general responsibility to develop, finance, and contract for the operation of mass transportation facilities and services within its territory. The territorial area of the Authority consists of six of the ten original cities and towns designated in the Act, these being the cities of Attleboro and Taunton and the towns of Rehoboth, Seekonk, Mansfield and Norton. At the time of formation of the Authority, North Attleboro, Raynham, Berkley, and Dighton do not join, however they may join in accordance with provisions of Section 3 under Chapter 161B.
