NYC Expands Bus Lane Cameras to B15, M31 Routes

MTA expands automated camera enforcement to B15 and M31 bus routes after 60-day warning

MTA Adds Camera Enforcement to B15, M31 Bus Routes

Two more New York City bus routes will get automated camera enforcement to catch drivers blocking lanes and stops. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced Monday that the B15 in Brooklyn and M31 in Manhattan will join the agency's Automated Camera Enforcement program, which now covers 60 routes across all five boroughs. The expansion affects routes serving over one million riders on an average weekday.

Program Targets Persistent Bus Lane Violations

The ACE program uses onboard cameras to capture violations including improper use of busways and bus lanes, vehicles blocking bus stops, and illegal double parking in bus zones. Transit officials said these violations slow service and create safety hazards for riders and operators. The initiative is administered in partnership with the New York City Department of Transportation and the New York City Department of Finance, which processes the summonses. Since launching in June 2024, the program has expanded from select pilot routes to a citywide enforcement system spanning 560 miles of bus corridors with more than 1,700 camera-equipped buses.

Warning Period Precedes $50 to $250 Fines

The B15 and M31 routes entered a 60-day warning period that began Monday, April 13, transit officials said. During this initial phase, vehicles caught violating bus lane rules will receive warning notices rather than fines. After the warning period ends, summonses for violations start at $50 and can escalate to $250 for repeat offenders, according to the MTA. All ACE-enforced corridors feature signage indicating camera enforcement is active, officials said.

Data Shows Speed and Safety Improvements

The camera enforcement program has demonstrated measurable results on existing routes, according to MTA data. ACE has produced speed gains of nearly 30% on some route segments, a 20% reduction in collisions, and a 40% reduction in blocked bus stops. The program has also contributed to an estimated 5% to 10% reduction in emissions on ACE routes, transit officials said. These improvements help buses maintain schedules and reduce delays caused by traffic violations.

Riders Can Track Real-Time Service Changes

The expansion aims to improve service reliability for riders on the B15 and M31 routes, which connect residential neighborhoods to major transit hubs and employment centers. Transit officials said the enforcement helps ensure buses can move efficiently through dedicated lanes without obstruction. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for all MTA bus routes, including service alerts and schedule information for the newly equipped B15 and M31 lines.