Gov. Kathy Hochul and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will increase bus service on 16 local routes across Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island beginning June 29.

The move is in addition to enhanced express bus service on eight lines that went into effect earlier this spring. The service enhancement will decrease travel times, shorten commutes, and reduce wait times at bus stops.

“Every New Yorker deserves access to safe, fast, and reliable public transit, and I’m investing in our buses and subways so we can deliver better service in every corner of our city,” Gov. Hochul said. “We’re taking action to strengthen our transportation infrastructure, bring stations and equipment up to par and create the best experience for every rider.”

New York’s Service Enhancements

Proposed by the Governor in November 2024 in connection with the launch of congestion pricing, the service enhancements are one of the many ways stakeholders are working to give commuters better alternatives to driving.

The local bus routes chosen have high ridership and, thanks to the success of congestion relief, allow riders to have expanded access to fast, safe, reliable transit service — especially in areas underserved by the subway system. 

NYC Transit President Demetrius said, “Frequent, reliable bus service is essential for so many New Yorkers, especially for those who don’t live near the subway,” said NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow. “By enhancing bus service on 16 local routes starting this summer, we can improve trips along critical corridors, especially where we have seen increased ridership since the beginning of congestion relief.”   

The increased service is being funded with $8 million from the Outer Borough Transportation Account, which was established by the New York State Legislature in 2018 to improve transportation service in the outer boroughs.