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The New York City Department of Transportation has announced plans to extend the double bus lanes on Madison Avenue, aiming to improve bus speeds and reliability for nearly 92,000 daily riders. The extension will stretch from 42nd Street south to 23rd Street, addressing congestion issues where buses currently travel at just 4.5 miles per hour, about half the citywide average speed of 8.1 miles per hour.
Deputy Mayor for Operations Julia Kerson and NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn unveiled the plan on Sunday at Madison Square Park. The project, initially proposed in 2025, faced delays due to "interference" from the previous administration, but it is now set to be completed by the end of this year. Kerson emphasized the significance of the project, stating, "Installing new bus lanes on Southern Madison Avenue will speed up commutes for nearly 100,000 riders a day."
The redesign will include two dedicated bus lanes, one general traffic lane, and a lane that alternates between parking and travel during rush hour. This layout aims to reflect the actual movement patterns in the corridor, where 55% of travelers are bus riders. The extension is expected to build on the success of similar projects, such as the Fifth Avenue redesign, which saw local bus speeds increase by up to 12% and express buses by up to 20%.
Transportation advocates have praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to enhance public transit and reduce congestion. Betsy Plum, executive director of the Riders Alliance, remarked, "Buses are the silent backbone of this city. We are excited to see faster buses that give riders back their time."
The project aligns with the city's broader efforts to improve public transportation and support the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's congestion pricing program, making it easier for commuters to access Manhattan's core without a car.
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