Bus transportation in Midtown, Manhattan takes a back seat as transit organizations and local politicians prioritize other modes of transport on 34th Street.
In the heart of New York City, the 34th Street Busway is set to make a comeback, following an agreement tied to the Midtown South rezoning plan [1][3][4]. This agreement, which aims to bring 10,000 new homes to the area, includes broader public realm improvements.
The busway, inspired by the successful 14th Street busway, is expected to deliver similar benefits to 34th Street. Officials anticipate faster and more reliable bus service, reduced congestion, and a safer corridor for transit users and pedestrians [2]. The busway will prioritise buses and trucks while maintaining local access for pick-ups, drop-offs, and loading to strike a balance between efficiency and accessibility [2].
If approved, the busway will stretch car-free between Third and Ninth Avenues on 34th Street [1][3]. It is projected to increase bus speeds by approximately 24% and reduce crashes by 42%, as demonstrated by the success of the 14th Street busway [2].
The rezoning deal also includes enhancements such as improved bus stop amenities (e.g., seating and shelters) to enhance accessibility and rider comfort [1][3]. These additions, along with pedestrian improvements, are designed to create a better transit experience and support sustainable travel.
The final City Council vote on the Midtown South rezoning, which includes the busway, is scheduled for August 14, 2025. If approved, implementation could begin soon after [3][4].
In support of this initiative, Mayor Eric Adams has stated that the 34th Street Busway would make the corridor safer and faster, providing a quick and reliable way for commuters to traverse the city [5]. City Council Member Keith Powers, who was present at the race, champions the busway plan and is proud to have fought for it [6]. City Council Member Erik Bottcher, who represents the area, stated that 86% of his constituents do not have cars and rely on public transportation [7].
Zohran Mamdani, a 2025 mayoral candidate, participated in the race on 34th Street and stated that the buses along this street are the slowest in the United States [8]. Transportation Alternatives expressed excitement about the proposed car-free busway along 34th Street and the pedestrianized Broadway [9].
In a recent rush hour race between a group of people walking and the M34 bus along 34th Street, the group beat the bus by seven minutes [10]. This underscores the potential for improved transit efficiency with the implementation of the 34th Street Busway.
If passed into law, 34th Street would join 14th Street and 181st Street as the third busway corridor in Manhattan [11]. This initiative forms a major part of New York City's efforts to improve transit efficiency and urban livability in Midtown Manhattan.
- In the Midtown South rezoning plan, the finance sector plays a crucial role, as it is the primary source of funding for the 10,000 new homes and the subsequent public realm improvements, including the 34th Street Busway.
- The 34th Street Busway, a cornerstone in New York City's transportation industry, aims to improve the city's transit system by enhancing the efficiency of buses and reducing congestion, much like the successful 14th Street busway.
