MTA proposes a massive makeover to Brooklyn’s busted bus system

By Brooklyn Magazine Staff

A major makeover could be soon coming to Brooklyn’s bus routes.

Last week, the MTA unveiled an eagerly anticipated draft plan that “reimagines the current Brooklyn bus network.” It could use it: Ridership on buses declined 14 percent from 2016 to 2019, with customers telling the transit agency they’re waiting too long and that service isn’t reliable, and when buses actually do arrive, they’re just too slow.

In an effort to address the issues, the MTA’s plan includes improving frequency on 24 routes, adding five new overnight bus routes and even adding completely new routes. In total, the plan would increase the number of 62 local routes to 69 and add 10 more express routes (from 9 to 19).

According to the MTA, the redesigned routes improve connections to subways and other bus routes, reduce stops that will lead to “faster and more reliable service,” and involve fewer turns for drivers. That could, in theory, to increase the average speed Brooklyn buses travel, which is just about 7 miles per hour.

“New Yorkers deserve buses that are faster and more reliable to connect them to jobs, education, health care and everything New York has to offer,” MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said at a news conference. “Redesigning and improving the route system is a huge part of that strategy and we look forward to working closely with Brooklynites to adjust the plan to reflect their feedback.”

Of course, this won’t happen overnight. The MTA will hold 18 virtual workshops to hear from the public about their concerns over the next several months. The plan, if passed, wouldn’t be implemented until at least 2024.

The reimagined Brooklyn Bus Network will create new travel opportunities, simplify trips, reduce travel times and strengthen interborough travel, creating a faster, easier, and more reliable bus network for all New Yorkers. pic.twitter.com/V6Mxlr2fwV

— MTA (@MTA) December 1, 2022