New MPG Poll: Worcester-area residents back fare-free buses

70% want to see the program extended for a 5th year; riders say they will ride less if fares return

As the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) weighs the future of fare-free bus service, a new poll of the region finds that seven-in-ten residents support continuing the 4-year-old policy. A majority (54%) strongly support continuing free fares. And nearly half of current riders surveyed say they would ride the bus less (26%) or stop riding altogether (19%)

Rockin’ Around the MassINC Tree

Our 2023 Year-End Wrap-Up

To all of our partners, supporters, subscribers, and friends – thank you for a wonderful 2023!   Rockin’ around the MassINC tree It’s the year-end wrap up song Data’s all out where you can see You can follow right along! Rockin’ around the MassINC tree Did you see the new survey? Another stat from MPG And we

New Poll: BPS parents voice concerns about children’s emotional well-being, physical safety

68% say they are at least somewhat concerned with their children’s physical safety

A new poll of parents of Boston Public Schools students finds parents remain concerned about their children’s physical safety and emotional well-being while at school. In all, 68% say they are at least somewhat concerned with their children’s physical safety (see chart). Parents of color express greater concern about physical safety than do white parents.

Poll: More than three-quarters of Massachusetts residents support boosting funding for regional bus service

79% of Massachusetts residents support increasing funding for the state’s 15 Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs)

As lawmakers on Beacon Hill dig in on this year’s state budget, 79% of Massachusetts residents support increasing funding for the state’s 15 Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs), which provide local bus and paratransit service beyond the reaches of MBTA bus and subway service.  Nearly as many (74%) support using some of the new voter-approved surtax

Poll: Mass. voters say an even split of millionaire’s tax would be a fair share

Two-thirds think surtax proceeds should go into a trust fund.

February 10, 2023 When Massachusetts voters approved a new surtax on income over $1 million last year, it was clear what that money was supposed to go to: transportation and education. But how much should go to each? A new poll from The MassINC Polling Group (topline, crosstabs) finds that just under half of voters

Statewide Poll of Parents Highlights Challenges Massachusetts Faces in Addressing Students’ COVID Recovery Needs

New poll sheds light on parents’ thoughts on the necessary supports and resources to help students recover academically

Seven out of 10 (73%) Massachusetts parents believe their child’s school has enough resources to help students in need, but fewer (56%) parents who see their children as behind grade level say the same. As Massachusetts decision-makers decide how best to tackle students’ unfinished learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a new poll released today by

Poll: 78% of voters view transportation system in only ‘fair or poor’ condition

New MassINC Polling Group Poll finds 59% of voters support future MBTA shutdowns to expedite improvements

October 20, 2022 Voters have a long transportation to-do list for the next governor of Massachusetts. Improving roads, bridges, and public transit is the top priority, but voters also support major expansions like bringing rail service to Western Massachusetts and reimagining the Commuter Rail network. To pay for it all, voters continue to support Question

Poll: Massachusetts small businesses still recovering from COVID

New MassINC Polling Group Poll finds Massachusetts small businesses owned by entrepreneurs of color see expansion opportunities if capital and space challenges can be overcome

September 22, 2022 A new statewide survey commissioned by Coalition for an Equitable Economy (the Coalition) in partnership with The MassINC Polling Group (MPG) and Mass Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) finds Massachusetts small businesses facing a long road to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, with about half (53%) reporting revenues remain lower than pre-pandemic. Business

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