Major changes coming to Tremont Avenue as city rolls out busway plans
This will be the first busway in the Bronx and one of nine citywide. According to the mayor, existing busways have already sped up travel times by an average of 60%.
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The city is moving forward with a long‑delayed busway on Tremont Avenue, a redesign officials say will finally bring relief to riders on one of the Bronx’s busiest routes.
The BX36 carries an average of 39,000 riders every day, serving as a major crosstown link from west to east. During rush hour, the bus averages just 5 mph, leading to chronic delays and what many commuters describe as an exhausting trip.
“If you don't have the privilege of owning a car, everyone knows getting across the Bronx on a local bus is maddening,” said Diniece Mendes, the city’s assistant commissioner for transit development.
The Tremont Avenue busway is part of the Mamdani administration’s effort to revive stalled transit projects and upgrade 50 priority corridors identified for improvements.
Under the plan, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., only buses and select vehicles will be allowed to travel the busway between Third Avenue and Southern Boulevard, with westbound restrictions extending to Belmont Avenue. A shared bus and bike lane will also be added between Webster Avenue and Third Avenue.
This will be the first busway in the Bronx and one of nine citywide. According to the mayor, existing busways have already sped up travel times by an average of 60%.
“Buses will not only run faster, but they will also run safer too,” Mayor Zohran Mamdani said, noting that the project includes painted sidewalk extensions designed to shorten pedestrian crossing distances and slow turning vehicles.
Enforcement will rely on stationary cameras, bus‑mounted cameras and NYPD patrols.
DOT also plans to adjust curb regulations along the corridor, adding new loading zones to reduce double‑parking and preserve space for deliveries, drop‑offs and cyclists.
But not everyone supports the changes. Some drivers say the restrictions will worsen congestion and limit parking options.
“It’s terrible… the street is already packed,” said Lou, a driver who lives nearby. “For all cars to not be able to park here at all, I think that’s going to be terrible.”
The city expects the new rules to roll out on Sept. 19 and plans to host a community workshop later this year to gather feedback from residents and businesses.
