Queens bus network redesign improves speed and reliability

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) reported that its Queens bus network redesign has successfully increased travel speeds and service reliability over the past year. Data comparing spring 2025 to spring 2026 shows that weekday bus speeds in Queens increased by an average of 1.7%, while off-peak speeds rose by nearly 2%. Notably, 24 of the 25 bus routes in New York City that saw the largest speed increases are located in Queens.

A key component of the overhaul was the introduction of ‘Rush Routes,’ which prioritize faster connections to subway stations by skipping certain stops on major thoroughfares. These routes saw an overall speed increase of 4.6%, with some segments improving by 11%. Specific examples include the Q51 Limited, which saves passengers up to 18 minutes, and the Q36, which saves over 6 minutes per trip.

The redesign, which followed six years of planning and community consultation, was implemented in two phases during the summer of 2025. It involved adding 17 new routes, converting 25 routes into express services, and adjusting 49 others. The initiative aims to benefit approximately 800,000 daily riders by providing faster travel, better connections, and simplified service.