The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) began issuing warnings to drivers on 10 bus routes equipped with Automated Camera Enforcement (ACE) technology aimed at curbing illegal parking and bus stop obstruction on Monday, September 16th. The initial 60-day warning period covers routes like the Bx28, B35, B42, and M101. After this period, violators will face fines starting at $50, increasing to $250 for repeated offenses.
The MTA plans to expand ACE to 20 additional routes across the five boroughs in a two-phase rollout. The first set of routes began monitoring on September 16th, while the second phase will launch on September 30th. Six of the new routes, including the B82 and Q53, are Select Bus Service (SBS) routes. By the end of September, 1,000 buses in the MTA fleet will be fitted with ACE cameras.
According to the MTA, ACE has effectively enhanced bus performance and street safety, showing a 5% increase in bus speeds and a 20% reduction in collisions. Additionally, ACE has successfully discouraged repeat offenders, with only 9% of drivers committing a second bus lane violation.
The program collaborates with the city’s Department of Transportation and Finance Department to process violations. The technology captures license plates, time, and location, with details sent to the authorities. Each route equipped with ACE displays clear signage to inform drivers about the automated enforcement.
The 60-day warning period for the next set of routes will begin on September 30. This includes the B25, Q5, and M86 SBS. The MTA continues to push this enforcement as a means to not only keep bus lanes clear but also to enhance overall road safety and reduce emissions.
