Residents press council to expand and maintain public restrooms near transit hubs

Boston — Several residents, transit advocates and organizers urged the Boston City Council Committee on Ways and Means on March 10 to invest in more and better‑maintained public restrooms, particularly near MBTA transit hubs.

Leonard Libenow of Boston DSA said the city’s online map lists only nine public restrooms in East Boston and argued that more restroom access would make the city more walkable and equitable. "Public restrooms are important...not just for people that are trying to walk between parks or in public spaces, but also just anyone who wants to go outside," he said.

Other speakers recommended year‑round access and 24/7 facilities at major transit stations, citing the Boston Frog Pond restroom as an example of seasonal hours (April–October) that leave downtown areas without reliable service. Malcolm Sherman Godfrey and Patrick Balog urged the city to prioritize accessibility, maintenance and sanitary supplies for people who depend on public restrooms, calling it both a dignity and public‑health issue.

Advocates linked restroom access to a broader transit‑and‑worker‑rights agenda, saying better amenities would make public transportation more equitable and help workers, people with disabilities and people experiencing homelessness. Councilors thanked testimony and said they would explore models from other cities and consider restroom access in upcoming budget conversations.

The committee did not adopt any budget changes at the hearing; councilors said the issue would be considered in future budget deliberations and working sessions.