NYC Buses Get Faster With New Camera Enforcement

MTA begins issuing $50-$115 fines for bus lane violations on four Bronx and Brooklyn routes

MTA Adds Camera Fines on Four NYC Bus Routes

Four NYC bus routes will see automated camera enforcement starting Friday, with fines issued to drivers who block bus lanes or stops. The MTA's new system affects the Bx12 SBS, Bx19, B46 SBS, and B60 routes in the Bronx and Brooklyn, transit officials said January 6. Cameras began issuing warnings December 9, giving drivers a 30-day grace period before fines take effect.

Enforcement Targets Persistent Delays

The automated system addresses a longstanding problem that slows bus service across the city. Vehicles illegally using bus lanes or blocking stops cause significant delays for transit riders, according to the agency. Demetrius Crichlow, Senior Vice President of the Department of Buses at New York City Transit, said automated enforcement is "a game-changer for bus service" that keeps lanes clear and stops accessible. The technology's been gradually expanding across the MTA bus network since 2019, though the agency hasn't released specific performance metrics from previous implementations.

Fines Set at $50 and $115

Drivers caught illegally driving, stopping, or standing in bus lanes face $50 fines under the new system. Blocking a bus stop carries a steeper penalty of $115, officials said. The cameras automatically capture violations and issue tickets to vehicle owners. The MTA hasn't disclosed how many cameras are installed on each route or provided estimates of expected fine revenue from the enforcement. New York State law authorizes the automated bus lane enforcement program.

Implementation Follows Warning Period

The 30-day warning period that began December 9 gave drivers time to adjust to the new enforcement before fines started Friday. Cities including London and San Francisco have seen improved bus speeds and reduced violations through similar automated enforcement systems. The MTA's been expanding camera enforcement gradually, though specific ridership data for the four affected routes wasn't immediately available.

Riders Can Expect Faster Service

Commuters using the Bx12 SBS, Bx19, B46 SBS, and B60 routes should see improved travel times as the enforcement discourages violations that typically slow buses. Transit advocacy groups haven't yet issued public statements on this specific enforcement expansion. Riders can check Moovit for real-time updates on these routes as the new enforcement takes effect.