Innovation on the move

MIT Technology Review

by Mackenzie White, SM ’25

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is embracing innovation to modernize its 128-year-old transit system while maintaining its historical roots. MIT alumni Katie Choe, Melissa Dullea, and Karti Subramanian have played pivotal roles in driving this transformation. Choe, as the former chief of staff, focused on fostering a "can-do" culture that prioritizes results over endless planning. Dullea led service planning, adapting routes to meet evolving needs, while Subramanian's team enhanced digital tools like the MBTA Go app, providing real-time information to riders. The MBTA’s innovation hub has streamlined operations by relying more on in-house expertise and cross-department collaboration. This shift has improved efficiency, with scheduled weekday trips on key lines increasing since 2024 due to track repairs and new railcars. Despite challenges like aging Red Line cars, overall service reliability is improving, supporting economic mobility in the region. This focus on practical innovation matters for AI enthusiasts because it highlights how technology is being integrated into public transit systems to enhance efficiency and user experience. From real-time tracking apps to data-driven decision-making, these advancements demonstrate how AI and tech can address legacy infrastructure challenges while meeting modern expectations. The MBTA’s journey underscores the importance of balancing historical preservation with forward-thinking approaches in transportation. By leveraging innovation to solve real-world problems, the authority is setting a precedent for other transit systems globally, showing that legacy organizations can thrive by embracing change.

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Originally published on MIT Technology Review on 2/24/2026