NYC Buses Get Faster With New Camera Enforcement
MTA activates automated cameras on four routes with $50-$115 fines for blocking buses
MTA Adds Camera Fines on 4 Queens, Bronx Routes
Drivers who block bus lanes or stops on four Queens and Bronx routes now face automated fines, the MTA said Thursday. The enforcement began November 14 on the Q1, Q2, Q44 Select Bus Service, and Bx35 routes after a 30-day warning period ended. Janno Lieber, MTA Chair and CEO, said blocking bus lanes slows down buses for tens of thousands of riders.
Cameras Target Persistent Blocking Problem
The automated enforcement addresses a persistent problem that delays buses and frustrates riders across the system. New York State authorized automated bus lane cameras in 2019, giving the MTA legal authority to deploy the technology. Officials said the cameras capture license plates of vehicles illegally parked in bus lanes or blocking bus stops. The enforcement expansion is part of the agency's broader effort to improve bus speeds and reliability, though officials haven't said how many additional routes will receive cameras or when.
Fines Set at $50 and $115 for Violations
Drivers caught blocking bus lanes face $50 fines, while blocking bus stops carries a $115 penalty. The four routes received cameras after the warning period that began in mid-October, during which drivers received warnings rather than fines. Demetrius Crichlow, Senior Vice President of NYC Transit's Department of Buses, said automated enforcement has been a game-changer for bus service. On routes where the MTA's deployed cameras, bus speeds have increased by as much as 20%, he said.
Enforcement Now Active After Warning Period
The 30-day warning period ended November 13, with fine enforcement beginning the following day. Officials didn't say how many warnings were issued during the grace period or how many cameras were installed on the four routes. The MTA has indicated plans to expand automated enforcement to additional routes, though a specific timeline for future deployments wasn't provided.
Riders Can Expect Faster, More Reliable Service
Riders on the Q1, Q2, Q44 SBS, and Bx35 routes should see faster travel times as the cameras discourage illegal parking and lane blocking. The 20% speed improvements seen on other routes with camera enforcement suggest significant time savings for daily commuters. Moovit provides real-time updates for MTA bus routes, helping riders track their buses and plan trips around service conditions.
