The Cost of a Trip Between Blackstone, MA and Marlborough, MA: Navigating Gas Prices

When it comes to transportation costs, gas prices are a constant variable. Knowing the cost of fuel is crucial in planning a trip, and can have a significant impact on the budget. This article will explore the cost of a trip between two Massachusetts cities, Blackstone and Marlborough, and the various routes and methods of transportation available to make the journey.

Possible Routes

There are several ways to travel between Blackstone and Marlborough, and each method of transportation has its own associated cost.

Route 146 to I-495 (26 miles)

This route is the most direct between Blackstone and Marlborough, but it does have a toll. Drivers would take Route 146 North until it merges onto I-90 East, then take Exit 10 for I-495 North towards Marlborough. The toll for this route is $1.50.

Via Mendon Road (28 miles)

An alternative to Route 146 is to travel via Route 16 (Main Street) in Uxbridge to Mendon Road (Route 140), then go south toward Franklin. From there, take Route 495 North to Marlborough. This route is longer but does not have a toll.

Via Franklin (26 miles)

Another alternative is to take Route 122 South from Blackstone, which becomes Route 126. Drive through Sutton and into the town of Grafton. Take Route 140 North toward North Grafton and Westborough, then merge onto Route 9 West. Take Exit 23A for I-495 South toward Marlborough. This route does not have a toll.

Using Public Transportation

There are also public transportation options available to travel from Blackstone to Marlborough. The easiest way is to take the Worcester/Framingham commuter rail line (MBTA) from the Grafton or Southborough stations. However, there is no direct service between Blackstone and either of these stations. Passengers would have to take a taxi to the station, which could add to the cost. A round-trip ticket on the commuter rail costs $14.50.

Cost of Trip

The cost of a trip between Blackstone and Marlborough varies depending on the chosen route and transportation method.

Driving: Route 146 to I-495

For those driving on the most direct route (Route 146 to I-495), they would travel a total of 26 miles for a cost of $1.50 in tolls and approximately $3.24 in gas (assuming an average gas price of $2.64 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon). The total cost for this trip would be $4.74.

Driving: Via Mendon Road

For those taking the route via Mendon Road, they would travel a total of 28 miles with no toll. The approximate gas cost would be $3.64. This makes the total cost for this trip $3.64.

Driving: Via Franklin

For those taking the route via Franklin, it would be a 26-mile drive with no toll. The approximate gas cost would be $3.24. This makes the total cost for this trip $3.24.

Public Transportation: MBTA Commuter Rail

For those taking the commuter rail, a round-trip ticket on the Worcester/Framingham line costs $14.50. This makes the total cost for this trip $14.50, plus any additional costs for transportation to or from the station.

Recommended Route

Of the three driving routes, the Route 146 to I-495 option is the most direct. However, the added cost of the toll may not be worth it for a short trip. The alternative routes via Mendon Road or Franklin have similar distances and no tolls, making them more cost-effective options.

For those concerned about the environmental impact, taking the commuter rail may be a good alternative. Although more expensive than driving, it offers the benefits of minimizing carbon emissions and the stress of driving.

Conclusion

The cost of a trip between Blackstone and Marlborough varies based on the chosen route and transportation method. Driving via either Mendon Road or Franklin is a cost-effective option, while taking the MBTA commuter rail is an alternative for those concerned about the environment. Ultimately, the chosen route will depend on personal preference and the driver's priorities. Regardless of the chosen method, the travel time between these two Massachusetts cities is approximately 30 minutes.