After facing a community backlash, the DOT and MTA announced today that they would end plans to launch select bus service in Harlem.
The express service on 125th Street, which would have had limited stops and off-board fare collection, was proposed because of the slow pace of the M60—which sometimes moves as slow as 2.7 miles per hour, or slower than the average person walks.
A DOT spokesman said that the project had been revised dramatically after 50 meetings with the public, but it still had no support from local community boards and elected officials.
“It simply was not possible to proceed at this time,” said Seth Solomonow. “We still hope to work to address these issues, and improve bus service throughout the corridor in dialogue with the community.”
MTA officials said they would still try to find other ways to improve bus speed and service, as well as pedestrian safety on 125th Street.
About 32,000 people take the bus everyday on 125th Street. Select bus service would have more quickly connected the Metro-North Railroad station with 12 subway lines.
Local senator Adriano Espaillat said the express service would have improved dramatically service for uptown residents.
“It is disappointing that this balanced and sensible proposal has been canceled,” he said.