M15 Select Bus Service: Enhancing Transit Service and Improving Mobility in New York City

M15 Select Bus Service: Enhancing Transit Service and Improving Mobility in New York City

The M15 Select Bus Service (SBS) is a groundbreaking initiative that has greatly improved transit service and mobility options along the M15 bus route in New York City. This research article, authored by Eric B. Beaton, Joseph E. Barr, Joseph V. Chiarmonte, Theodore V. Orosz, Dominique Paukowits, and Aaron Sugiura in 2012, explores the implementation and impact of the SBS partnership between the New York City Transit Authority and the New York City Department of Transportation.

What is the M15 Select Bus Service?

The M15 Select Bus Service is a form of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) implemented on First and Second Avenues in New York City. BRT is a transit system that combines the efficiency and reliability of rail-based rapid transit with the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of buses. The M15 SBS was designed to address the challenges posed by constrained and congested streets, while also creating safe spaces for cycling and improving pedestrian safety.

To achieve these goals, several innovative strategies were employed, including proof-of-payment fare collection, the addition of new bus lanes, improved bus lane treatments (such as offset bus lanes next to parking lanes), route simplification, better scheduling, enhanced stations, and improved customer information.

How has it improved transit service in New York City?

The implementation of the M15 SBS has brought about numerous improvements to transit service in New York City. By introducing dedicated bus lanes and priority treatments, the MTA and the NYC Department of Transportation have created a more efficient and reliable bus service, benefiting both current and potential riders.

One of the noteworthy improvements is the increase in bus speed and reliability. With the introduction of proof-of-payment fare collection, buses no longer need to wait for passengers to board, resulting in quicker travel times. The addition of bus lanes, especially the offset bus lanes, allows buses to bypass general traffic, reducing delays associated with congestion.

Passenger comfort and reliability have also been enhanced through route simplification, improved scheduling, and enhanced stations. These improvements provide a more seamless and user-friendly transit experience for commuters.

What were the results of the implementation of the Select Bus Service?

The results of implementing the M15 SBS have been remarkable. There has been a significant improvement in travel time, with an estimated 15% to 18% decrease in overall travel time along the M15 corridor. This gain in efficiency has not only benefited bus riders but also has the potential to increase ridership and attract new commuters to public transit.

The implementation of the M15 SBS has also led to a 10% increase in corridor ridership. The improved transit service, along with the infrastructure changes, has made public transportation a more attractive option for residents and commuters along the corridor.

Furthermore, the project’s emphasis on multimodal transportation has resulted in a substantial increase in cycling. The addition of new parking-protected bike lanes along the corridor has made cycling a safer and more viable mode of transportation. By creating a more bicycle-friendly environment, the M15 SBS has contributed to the overall improvement of transportation options in the area.

Implications for Mobility and Future Transit Initiatives

The success of the M15 SBS partnership between the New York City Transit Authority and the New York City Department of Transportation demonstrates the effectiveness of strategic collaboration to address complex transportation challenges. By prioritizing transit service improvements while considering competing demands for traffic flow and parking, the MTA and NYC DOT were able to create a balanced and sustainable solution.

The positive outcomes of the M15 SBS project highlight the potential for similar ventures in other congested urban areas. As cities worldwide grapple with transportation-related issues, the lessons learned from the M15 SBS can inform future transit initiatives aimed at improving travel times, enhancing passenger comfort, and increasing ridership.

In conclusion, the M15 Select Bus Service has revolutionized transit service along the M15 corridor in New York City. Through the implementation of BRT strategies such as dedicated bus lanes, proof-of-payment fare collection, and better customer information, the partnership between the New York City Transit Authority and the New York City Department of Transportation has significantly improved travel times, reliability, and ridership. In addition, the integration of parking-protected bike lanes has created safer conditions for cyclists and expanded the range of transportation options for residents and commuters.

To read the full research article, visit: [link to the research article]