The Cost of a Trip Between Boylston and Sharon, Massachusetts: A Guide to Finding the Cheapest Route
If you're planning a trip between Boylston and Sharon, Massachusetts, calculating the cost of travel can be a significant concern. Whether you're driving, taking public transportation, or cycling, the distance and route you choose can impact the cost of your journey. In this article, we'll explore the different transportation options available to you and help you find the cheapest route for your trip.
Driving
Driving is the most popular option for travel between Boylston and Sharon, Massachusetts. If you have access to a vehicle, this is often the quickest and most convenient way to get there. There are several different routes you can take, depending on your starting point and destination.
Route 90
Route 90, also known as the Massachusetts Turnpike, is a major highway that runs between Boston and New York City. If you're starting in Boylston, you'll need to take I-290 East to get onto the Massachusetts Turnpike. From there, you'll take Exit 11A to get onto Route 495 South, which will take you to Sharon.
The distance between Boylston and Sharon via this route is approximately 51 miles, and it should take about 1 hour and 10 minutes to drive. According to AAA's gas price calculator, assuming an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a current average gas price of $2.90 per gallon, the cost of gas for this trip would be around $11.60.
Route 9
Route 9 is another major highway that runs between Boston and Worcester. If you're starting in Boylston, you can take Route 9 East all the way to Sharon. This route is slightly longer than taking the Massachusetts Turnpike, but it may be more convenient depending on your starting point and traffic conditions.
The distance between Boylston and Sharon via this route is approximately 59 miles, and it should take about 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive. Using the same assumptions as before, the cost of gas for this trip would be around $14.24.
Other Routes
Depending on your starting point and destination, there may be other routes you can take between Boylston and Sharon. For example, you could take Route 140 South to Route 495 South, or Route 122A South to Route 140 South.
It's important to note that while these routes may be shorter in distance, they may take longer to drive due to traffic or road conditions. Additionally, gas prices may vary depending on where you fill up along these routes.
Public Transportation
If you don't have access to a vehicle or prefer not to drive, there are several public transportation options available between Boylston and Sharon. These options include buses and trains.
Bus
The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) operates several bus routes throughout Worcester County, including Route 30, which runs between Worcester and Frankin. If you're starting in Boylston, you can take the WRTA Route 2 bus to Union Station in Worcester, then transfer to the Route 30 bus to Franklin.
The cost of a one-way bus fare on the WRTA is $1.75. However, to get from Boylston to Sharon using this route, you would need to transfer to the MBTA Commuter Rail in Franklin, which would add an additional cost.
Train
The MBTA Commuter Rail also runs between Worcester and Boston, with several stops along the way, including in Franklin. If you're starting in Boylston, you can take the WRTA Route 2 bus to Union Station in Worcester, then transfer to the MBTA Commuter Rail in Worcester to get to Franklin.
The cost of a one-way train ticket from Worcester to Franklin is $7.75. However, to get from Boylston to Sharon using this route, you would need to transfer to a local bus or taxi, which would add an additional cost.
Cycling
If you're looking for a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to travel between Boylston and Sharon, cycling may be a good option for you. There are several bike routes available, including the Mass Central Rail Trail and the Upper Charles Trail.
The distance between Boylston and Sharon via the Mass Central Rail Trail is approximately 47 miles, and it should take about 4 hours to cycle. The Upper Charles Trail is slightly longer, at approximately 51 miles, and it should take about 4.5 hours to cycle.
While cycling is free, it's important to make sure you have the necessary equipment, including a bicycle, helmet, and appropriate clothing. You'll also need to take into account the cost of food and water if you plan on cycling for several hours.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several different transportation options available for travel between Boylston and Sharon, Massachusetts. While driving is often the most popular option, public transportation and cycling can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives.
If you're driving, taking Route 90 or Route 9 are the most common routes, with Route 90 being slightly shorter and cheaper in terms of gas costs. If you're taking public transportation, the MBTA Commuter Rail is often the most convenient option, although it does require a transfer and additional costs for local transportation.
If you're looking for a more adventurous way to travel, cycling along the Mass Central Rail Trail or Upper Charles Trail can be a fun and healthy way to get from Boylston to Sharon. Whatever transportation option you choose, be sure to plan ahead and consider the distance, cost, and time needed to make the journey.