Link413, a groundbreaking collaboration between three regional transit authorities, launched Wednesday with new weekday bus routes linking the Berkshires to the Pioneer Valley for the first time.

The service debuted January 28 with three routes operated by the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA), Franklin Regional Transit Authority (FRTA), and Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA). Route 901 connects Pittsfield and North Adams in 45 minutes, while Route 903 travels from North Adams to Greenfield through scenic hill towns including Adams, Savoy, and Charlemont. Route 904 provides a 90-minute journey from Pittsfield to Northampton along the Route 9 corridor.

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The partnership addresses a critical transportation gap in Western Massachusetts, where residents previously had limited options for traveling between regions. All routes feature modern amenities including free WiFi, high-back seating, and bike racks, with connections to Amtrak service in Pittsfield.

Link413 represents months of planning and coordination between the three transit authorities, creating an integrated system that serves commuters, students, healthcare patients, and residents across Berkshire, Franklin, and Hampshire counties. The weekday service aims to support economic development and improve access to employment, education, and essential services throughout the region.