WORCESTER — For the first time in more than a year, the city’s elementary and middle schools returned to full-time, in-person learning Monday.

The experiment in fare-free bus service is scheduled to end June 30, but members of the Zero Fare Coalition said they are not giving up their hope or their advocacy.

Free public bus service will end June 30, as members of the Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board passed a $28 million budget for 2022 that includes fare income.

Earlier this year, Worcester Interfaith, the Worcester Branch of the NAACP and group of individuals plaintiffs filed suit in federal court alleging that Worcester’s method of electing School Committee members is unfair and in violation of the Voting Rights Act.

The meat of the fiscal 2022 budget discussion is still about a month out, but with an estimated $230 million due to come the city's way from the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act, it's going to be a budget season like no other.

WORCESTER – A new report by the Worcester Regional Research Bureau shows younger, white students were more likely to return to schools for in-person learning this month.

WORCESTER — The Worcester Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board voted overwhelmingly Thursday to continue fare-free service until June 30, the end of the fiscal year.

WORCESTER — The Worcester Regional Transit Authority will continue its zero fare policy until mid-March, but advisory board members sought more information on federal funding before making a decision on the future of fare-free service.

WORCESTER — A “network fiber break” that knocked out the internet for a good chunk of the city Monday has leaders refocused on improving local broadband connectivity and the option of municipal broadband, saying that the future depends on fast, reliable internet.

WORCESTER — The unsung heroes of public service will be honored at a virtual ceremony Thursday by the Worcester Regional Research Bureau.