NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Between the Hudson River and the East River, 42nd Street is bustling with residents, tourists, cars and buses. But if three Manhattan community boards have their way, it will soon become an exclusive busway to help people more quickly travel across Midtown.
Manhattan Community Boards 4, 5 and 6 sent a letter to Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Department of Transportation last week to push for a busway on 42nd Street, in the image of that established on 14th Street. The plan is meant to improve traffic flow by limiting through-traffic and requiring vehicles take the first available right turn.
“Given the critical need to enhance public transportation infrastructure in this highly congested area of Manhattan, this project would significantly improve the efficiency and livability of 42nd Street for both commuters and pedestrians,” the letter, obtained by NY1, said.
While there are bus lanes on 42nd Street, the average speed of the M42 is just five miles per hour. Francesca takes the route three to four times a week and told 1010 WINS that she feels the reduced speed in her travels.
“Very slow,” she said. “It like runs every 15 to 20 minutes.”
Commuter Han Bing Zheng told 1010 WINS that while the traffic situation in lower Manhattan has significantly improved since congestion pricing was implemented last week, a busway would still make commuting better for everyone.
“If we make it a bus lane only that will benefit local residents who commute to work and also tourists coming to New York City,” she said.
Community Boards 4, 5 and 6 did not immediately respond to 1010 WINS’ request for comment.
Improving crosstown connections in Manhattan is a key priority for the city’s DOT, and it said in a statement to 1010 WINS that it is open to hearing a proposal from the community boards.
“Our streets must make it safer and easier for pedestrians, cyclists, and bus riders to get around our city,” the agency said.
“NYC DOT looks forward to reviewing the community’s input on the future of 42nd Street.”