TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) held talks with Boston Mayor Michelle Wu (吳弭) on Friday.

The two mayors exchanged views on key municipal issues, including transportation networks and housing policy, according to a press release from the Taichung City Government.

On transportation reform, Wu explained Boston’s initiative to introduce three free bus routes. She said the policy was developed through big data analysis that identified high-ridership corridors, traffic bottlenecks, and major economic routes.

By simplifying fare collection, the city hopes to improve travel efficiency and ease traffic congestion. Lu shared Taichung’s “Double Ten Bus” policy, which provides free bus rides within 10 kilometers and caps fares at NT$10 (US$0.31) beyond that distance.

She said the system benefits about 80% of commuters while promoting fairness, and added that both cities share similar approaches to improving public transportation efficiency.

Lu also praised Boston’s significant investment in public welfare spending. She added that Taichung is similarly committed to supporting housing needs for young people and vulnerable groups, emphasizing that citizens’ well-being remains a priority in municipal planning.

Lu is leading a delegation mainly on the US East Coast until March 21. She will visit cities across five states, including New York and Washington, DC. The trip aims to deepen national and city ties.