MTA reveals next phase and launch date of Bronx local bus network re-design

Credit: Metropolitan Transportation Authority

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has announced that the newly re-designed Bronx local bus network is set to launch on 26 June 2022. In preparation for these changes, MTA and the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) are jointly launching a large-scale public outreach effort to advise customers of the changes that will be implemented.

As a result, some bus riders began replacing Guide-A-Ride inserts as early as 28 February 2022, with brightly coloured inserts alerting customers that bus routes at relevant locations will be changing in Summer 2022. The NYC DOT teams, along with the New York City Transit (NYCT) team, will also begin adding new signage at approximately 450 bus stops throughout the Bronx.

“With faster buses, more efficient routes and a network that’s going to improve accessibility to jobs, education and economic opportunity, the Bronx Bus re-design is truly a transformative plan developed in partnership with local community leaders and elected officials to better serve all Bronxites,” said MTA’s Chair and CEO, Janno Lieber.

“The new Guide-A-Ride inserts that riders will slowly begin to see at multiple bus stops is an exciting reminder that good changes are coming,” said MTA’s Chief Customer Officer, Sarah Meyer. “There has been extensive outreach behind developing the plan and we will continue to communicate via multiple channels to ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible.”

MTA staff will conduct a public outreach and education campaign via in-person, print and social media before and after the 26 June 2022 start date for the new network to provide sufficient notice of the changes ahead of implementation, as well as trip guidance once the new network is in place. As the effective date approaches, bus riders will also receive brochures that outline the re-design and NYCT staff will be available to answer questions at key locations throughout the borough.

“I am thrilled to see the launch of the new Bronx local bus network coming along,” said MTA Bus Company’s Acting President and New York City Transit’s Department of Buses Senior Vice President, Frank Annicaro. “Through years of collaborative work on planning, designing, listening to feedback, reworking and restarting after the COVID-19 pause, we are excited to provide the Bronx community with the best re-design possible that delivers a more efficient bus service.”

In December 2021, the MTA Board unanimously approved the Bronx Local Bus Network Redesign, which includes changes to improve local, limited and Select Bus Service (SBS) routes. In order to deliver more efficient and reliable service, the re-designed network focuses on streamlining routes; enhancing connectivity; improving frequency and bus stop spacing; and in partnership with NYC DOT expanding bus priority.