Dedham to Longwood public transport (Orange, Huntington: transfer to, mall, bus)

[LeoRoger]

Hello - I am considering moving to Dedham, but have some questions relating to the commute. I would be commuting from close to the Dedham Mall to the Longwood area, and I don't have parking at Longwood. One possibility would be to drive to Forest Hills, park there, and take the Orange Line to Ruggles. The parking lots at Forest Hills seem small; does anyone know how early in the morning they fill up on week days? Are there other park and ride options that might be better?

Otherwise I could take the 34/34E/35 to Forest Hills and switch to the 39. Google suggests that it should take less than an hour. Has anyone tried that commute? Would it take much longer or be super packed during peak hours?



I know these questions are pretty specific; any insight or tips would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[goyguy]

Specificity is good!
MBTA parking lots and garages throughout the system are routinely filled to overflowing by no later than 7 AM most weekdays. The 34 is a pretty reliable route as long as your work schedule coincides with "normal" peak-time commutes. My advice would be to use the Orange Line from Forest Hills (at least in good weather) rather than transfer to the 39. You'd reach Ruggles much faster than if you were to take that bus with its numerous traffic lights, heavy ridership, Huntington Ave congestion, etc along the way. On a mild sunny day what's not to like about a walk of a couple of extra blocks?