The MTA is facing criticism for canceling scheduled express bus trips, which has disrupted the commutes of over 50,000 weekday riders. These express buses, which cover nearly 80 routes and cost $7 per trip, are crucial for many commuters in the outer boroughs, offering a direct alternative to lengthy and complex journeys involving multiple buses and trains. The cancellations have been attributed to a shortage of drivers, an issue that MTA President Davey has acknowledged and stated the agency is addressing through recruitment efforts. With the impending $15 congestion toll, Queens lawmakers are demanding more MTA bus service to Manhattan to accommodate the increased demand. The canceled trips affect the 1,030 express buses that run daily.
As an express bus rider, I have personally experienced bus rides being scrapped because of a lack of drivers - totally unacceptable. I recently brought up this issue with @MTA President Davey who said they are focusing on recruitment. @MTA - you must do better! https://t.co/gOLsxwSbmB
Queens lawmakers demand MTA include the borough in express bus service expansion https://t.co/2jLlX6JRcu
The MTA scrapped a series of scheduled trips on express bus routes that link the boroughs with Manhattan, sounding a familiar refrain on social media about a shortage of drivers. https://t.co/vunBkBZKYw
“The canceled trips are disrupting the commutes of the more than 50,000 weekday commuters who rely on the 1,030 express buses that run along close to 80 routes for $7 a trip.” — @JMartinezNYC reports https://t.co/wEWSRv0Sc4
Queens lawmakers demand more MTA bus service to Manhattan before $15 congestion toll begins https://t.co/5XIinQM9ko https://t.co/76uF6bvMgO
For many in the outer boroughs, express buses are a lifeline. They are the difference between a daily 1-hour direct commute and a 3-hour commute involving multiple buses and trains. With congestion pricing coming, it's a very bad time for the MTA to be dropping the ball. https://t.co/aYrZR0BRts