Boston is moving ahead with plans for two free shuttle routes in Mattapan and Roxbury, aiming to start service by 2027 and make it easier for residents to reach transit hubs and neighborhood destinations. The routes are part of a five-line LINK bus program funded with $11.5 million in federal money. The Mattapan and Roxbury service could connect neighborhoods to Blue Hill Avenue and Mattapan Square station, but the routes have not been finalized. Boston’s Economic Development and Industrial Corporation approved the two services Sept. 17. The city and its partners will next seek bids, select an operator and begin community engagement. Officials say residents, businesses, elected officials and community organizations will help shape routes, stops, schedules and service models. The free shuttles are intended to address gaps in the existing transit network by linking residential areas with MBTA stations and other destinations. The service will be open to anyone, and the MBTA supported the city’s application for funding. Mayor Michelle Wu said the program is meant to improve access to work, school, medical appointments and local businesses while strengthening connections to public transit. Interim Chief of Streets Chris Osgood described the planned buses as a way to fill first- and last-mile gaps, with each service tailored to its neighborhood. The Mattapan and Roxbury routes are among five LINK services supported by a broader $21.6 million LINKUP Greater Boston award from the Federal Highway Administration’s Congestion Relief Program, administered through the state Department of Transportation. The award also includes $10 million for expanding Bluebikes and access to electric bicycles. Other LINK services are planned or operating in Allston-Brighton, Charlestown and the Lower Mystic River area, and the South Boston Waterfront. A Mission Hill LINK bus is already in service. The program is designed to complement the MBTA rather than replace its buses and trains.