Boston (AP) -- The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles is closing 11 branches statewide and opening five new branches in a move to deal with a $13 million cut in its budget.
The agency says the closings will save $1.7 million annually. The shutdowns begin this month in Lowell and end in December in Boston. Branches are also closing in North Attleboro, Cambridge, New Bedford, Springfield, Southbridge, Framingham, Falmouth, Eastham and Beverly.
Some layoffs are expected and wait times will likely get longer. The RMV is hoping to shorten lines by directing customers to its Web site for transactions.
The new branches will be opening at Massachusetts Turnpike offices, toll plazas and visitor centers, where the Registry won't have to pay rent. New branches are planned in Boston, Charlton, Natick, Bourne and Peabody.
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