NYC Buses Get Faster With New Camera Tech
MTA installs automated cameras on B46, M15, and M86 routes to ticket bus lane violators
MTA Adds Bus Lane Cameras on 3 NYC Routes
Three busy bus routes serving over 100,000 daily riders now have automated cameras to catch vehicles blocking bus lanes and stops. The MTA activated the enforcement technology Monday on Brooklyn's B46 and Manhattan's M15 and M86 routes, officials said. The expansion brings the total number of camera-equipped routes to more than 20 across New York City, though officials didn't specify how many cameras were installed on each line.
Cameras Target Chronic Bus Delays
The camera expansion addresses a persistent problem that slows buses and frustrates riders throughout the city. Vehicles illegally parked or driving in bus lanes force buses to merge into traffic, creating delays that ripple through the system. The automated cameras capture images of violations, which are reviewed before tickets are issued to vehicle owners. New York State authorized the enforcement technology in June 2019, providing the legal framework for the MTA's growing camera program.
Routes See Speed Gains Up to 20%
Bus routes with existing camera enforcement have seen speed improvements of up to 20%, according to MTA data. Janno Lieber, MTA Chair and CEO, said the cameras are "a proven tool to keep bus lanes clear and buses moving, which means faster, more dependable trips for our customers." Demetrius Crichlow, Senior Vice President of Buses at New York City Transit, told reporters the technology has "made a real difference on routes where they've been deployed." The MTA didn't disclose the cost of the camera expansion or revenue generated from violations on existing routes.
System Operational as of Monday
The cameras became operational Monday on all three routes, officials confirmed. The B46 runs along Utica and Malcolm X boulevards in Brooklyn, while the M15 travels along First and Second avenues and the M86 crosses Manhattan's Upper East and West sides. The MTA hasn't announced plans for additional route expansions at this time, though the agency continues evaluating where enforcement could improve service.
Riders Can Track Real-Time Service
The camera enforcement aims to deliver faster, more reliable trips for the hundreds of thousands of riders who depend on these routes daily. Transit advocacy groups haven't yet issued public statements on the expansion. Riders can check Moovit for real-time bus arrival information and service updates on the B46, M15, M86, and other MTA routes across the New York City area.
