Drivers who frequently stop or park in bus lanes or at bus stops along the BX11 and BX17 routes will soon face increased enforcement.
Beginning Monday, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority will launch a 60-day warning period for its automated bus lane enforcement program on the two Bronx routes. During that time, drivers who illegally stop or park in bus lanes or block designated bus stops will receive warning notices instead of fines.
After the warning period ends, violations captured by the bus-mounted cameras will result in tickets.
With the addition of the BX11 and BX17, the city's automated enforcement program will operate on 67 MTA bus routes and more than 1,900 buses.
The cameras are designed to identify vehicles that illegally park or stand in bus lanes or obstruct bus stops.
According to the MTA, the program helps improve bus reliability, reduce delays and increase safety for riders.
"I'm hoping it gets better because when you promote change, you just got to flow with it for a while before it starts working, and maybe it will get people to stop parking in the bus lanes," said bus rider Denise.