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New Queens bus routes now in effect for commuters as part of MTA network redesign project

The article from ABC7NY, published on March 1, 2024, discusses significant changes to the bus routes in Queens, New York, as part of the MTA's network redesign project. The changes, which went into effect on that date, aim to improve the efficiency and reliability of public transportation in the borough. The article provides detailed information about the new routes, the rationale behind the changes, and the expected impact on commuters.

The MTA's Queens Bus Network Redesign project is a comprehensive effort to overhaul the existing bus system, which has been criticized for its inefficiencies and outdated routes. The redesign aims to better serve the current population and travel patterns, which have changed significantly since the last major update to the bus network. The project involved extensive public consultation, with the MTA gathering feedback from residents, commuters, and local organizations to ensure that the new routes meet the needs of the community.

One of the key changes introduced in the redesign is the introduction of new bus routes that better connect residential areas with major employment centers, shopping districts, and other key destinations. For example, the new Q48 route now runs from Flushing to LaGuardia Airport, providing a direct link between one of the busiest transportation hubs in Queens and a major employment center. Similarly, the Q70 route has been extended to serve the growing residential areas in Astoria, improving access to the N and W subway lines.

The article also highlights the introduction of new bus lanes and priority measures to improve the speed and reliability of bus services. The MTA has implemented dedicated bus lanes on several key corridors, such as Northern Boulevard and Jamaica Avenue, to reduce the impact of traffic congestion on bus travel times. Additionally, the agency has introduced traffic signal priority at select intersections, allowing buses to move through traffic more efficiently.

Another significant aspect of the redesign is the consolidation of some existing routes to improve service frequency and reliability. The MTA has merged several underutilized routes into more popular ones, allowing for more frequent service on the busiest corridors. For example, the Q20 and Q44 routes have been combined into a single route, the Q44 SBS (Select Bus Service), which now runs every 5-10 minutes during peak hours. This change is expected to significantly reduce wait times for commuters and improve the overall attractiveness of the bus system.

The article also discusses the impact of the redesign on specific communities and neighborhoods. In areas like Jamaica and Flushing, where there is a high concentration of bus riders, the changes are expected to have a significant positive impact. The new routes and increased service frequency will provide residents with more convenient and reliable transportation options, reducing the need for car ownership and helping to alleviate traffic congestion. However, the article also acknowledges that some residents may face longer walks to their nearest bus stop or may need to transfer between routes more frequently. The MTA has committed to monitoring the impact of the changes and making adjustments as needed to ensure that the new network meets the needs of all users.

The article also touches on the broader context of the Queens Bus Network Redesign, including the MTA's efforts to improve public transportation across the city. The agency is currently working on similar redesign projects in other boroughs, such as Brooklyn and the Bronx, with the goal of creating a more efficient and user-friendly public transportation system. The Queens project is seen as a pilot for these future efforts, with the lessons learned and best practices developed in Queens being applied to other parts of the city.

In addition to the route changes, the article discusses the MTA's efforts to improve the overall customer experience on buses. This includes the introduction of new, more comfortable buses with features like Wi-Fi and USB charging ports. The agency is also working to improve the reliability of bus service through better maintenance and the introduction of new technologies, such as real-time bus tracking and automated stop announcements.

The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of public transportation in Queens and the role that the bus network plays in the lives of millions of residents. With the population of the borough continuing to grow and change, the MTA's efforts to modernize and improve the bus system are seen as crucial to ensuring that everyone has access to safe, reliable, and convenient transportation options. The Queens Bus Network Redesign is a significant step forward in this effort, and the article encourages residents to try out the new routes and provide feedback to help shape the future of public transportation in the borough.

Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the changes to the Queens bus network, highlighting the key features of the redesign and the expected impact on commuters. It also situates the project within the broader context of the MTA's efforts to improve public transportation across New York City, emphasizing the importance of these changes for the future of the borough and the city as a whole.

Read the Full abc7NY Article at:
[ https://abc7ny.com/post/nyc-traffic-new-queens-bus-routes-now-effect-commuters-part-mta-network-redesign-project-what-know/16880558/ ]