Boston transit agency offers free rides for a day in goodwill gesture after winter breakdowns

Boston's public transit agency is letting people ride for free for a day as a goodwill gesture following a winter of disastrous breakdowns.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority says riders can skip the fare Friday for all modes of transportation, including trolleys, buses and commuter rail trains.

The MBTA also is offering 15 percent discounts on weekly and monthly passes in May to show appreciation for commuters.

Several riders told The Associated Press that while they appreciated the gesture, it isn't enough to make up for the major service lapses. They are calling on the state and T management to do more to upgrade the system.

Gov. Charlie Baker this week unveiled legislation to overhaul the MBTA. The bill would create a new financial control board to oversee the agency.