Getting Around: A Guide to Transportation in Lawrence, MA

Lawrence, Massachusetts, is one of the most well-connected cities in the Merrimack Valley. Located just 25 miles north of Boston, the "Immigrant City" relies on a robust infrastructure of rail, bus, and highway networks to support its dense population and active workforce. Whether you are commuting to Boston or traveling locally, Lawrence offers various efficient—and in some cases, free—transportation options.

Public Transportation: Rail and Bus

MBTA Commuter Rail: For commuters working in Boston, the MBTA Commuter Rail is the primary link to the capital. Lawrence is a major stop on the Haverhill Line, which runs directly to Boston's North Station.

• McGovern Transportation Center: Located on Merrimack Street, this modern intermodal hub serves as the city's train station. It offers parking and connects rail passengers with local bus routes.
• Commute Time: The train ride to Boston takes approximately one hour, providing a stress-free alternative to driving on I-93 during rush hour.

MeVa Transit (Formerly MVRTA): Local public transportation is managed by the Merrimack Valley Transit Authority, now rebranded as MeVa. Lawrence is the central hub for this award-winning bus system, which connects the city to Haverhill, Methuen, Andover, and other surrounding towns.

• Fare-Free Service: A standout feature of transportation in Lawrence is that MeVa buses are currently fare-free for all riders on all local fixed routes. This makes getting around the city incredibly accessible for residents and visitors.
• Buckley Transportation Center: Located downtown on Common Street, this terminal serves as the pulse of the bus network, where most routes converge.

Major Highways and Roadways

Lawrence is strategically positioned at the intersection of major highways, making it a convenient hub for drivers.

• Interstate 495 (I-495): This major interstate runs directly through Lawrence, crossing the Merrimack River. It provides essential east-west connectivity, linking the city to the New Hampshire seacoast to the north and the Worcester area to the south.
• Interstate 93 (I-93): Just west of the city limits, I-93 serves as the primary north-south artery into Boston and New Hampshire. It is easily accessible via Route 110 or I-495.
• Route 28 (Broadway): Running north-south through the heart of the city, Route 28 (Broadway) is Lawrence's main commercial street. It connects the city directly to Methuen, Andover, and North Andover.
• Route 114: This state route connects Lawrence to Salem and the North Shore, passing through Merrimack College in North Andover.

Airport Accessibility

• Lawrence Municipal Airport (LWM): Located in North Andover, this airport serves the region's general aviation needs, including private charters and flight training.
• Major International Airports: For commercial flights, Lawrence is situated between two major hubs. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is about 30 miles south, and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) in New Hampshire is approximately 25 miles north, often offering a less congested alternative for travelers.

Walkability and Bike Trails

As the most densely populated city in Massachusetts outside of Boston, Lawrence is highly walkable. Many residents live within walking distance of the downtown commercial district, schools, and parks. The city is also expanding its green transportation network with the Spicket River Greenway, a 3.5-mile greenway that connects neighborhoods, parks, and schools, offering a scenic route for pedestrians and cyclists.