Getting Around Lowell: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Lowell, Massachusetts offers a moderately walkable environment, especially in neighborhoods like Downtown, Back Central, and The Acre. These areas are likely to have a concentration of cafes, restaurants, and shops, making them convenient for travelers who enjoy exploring cities on foot. However, outside of the downtown core, having a car might be necessary to reach larger grocery stores or amenities. The city is actively working on improving its walkability by conducting walk audits to make streets more traveler-friendly.

Travelers in Lowell will find the public transit system a useful option, with the Lowell Regional Transit Authority providing fixed-route bus services to key areas within the city and surrounding towns. The central transit hub, Kennedy Center, and the Gallagher Terminal for the MBTA Commuter Rail offer easy connections to Boston, expanding the range of accessible destinations. This setup is particularly beneficial for those looking to explore the broader metropolitan area or needing to reach Logan Airport. The system also offers free travel options for UMass Lowell students and employees.

Biking in Lowell presents certain challenges with some existing bike lanes that don't yet form a comprehensive network, which limits safe biking routes. The Bruce Freeman Rail Trail offers a safer, dedicated path for biking, showcasing the potential for scenic rides away from high-traffic areas. However, biking on main roads can be risky due to high speeds and traffic. The city is making efforts to improve the situation by planning more bike lanes, supported by grants aimed at providing safer spaces for walking and cycling.