Full Breakdown
Mayor Zohran Mamdani Revives Bronx Bus Lanes and Brooklyn Bike Projects
2/14/2026, 6:01:56 AM
Announcement of Transit Improvements
On February 10, 2026, Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced plans to reinstate two significant transit projects that had been halted under former Mayor Eric Adams. The projects include the installation of offset bus lanes on Fordham Road in the Bronx and the construction of a two-way protected bike lane on Ashland Place in Brooklyn. These initiatives aim to enhance public transit efficiency and safety for cyclists in New York City.
Details of the Projects
The Fordham Road project targets the busiest bus corridor in the Bronx, which serves approximately 85,000 riders daily across five bus routes. The redesign will feature dedicated bus lanes positioned away from the curb to minimize conflicts with parked vehicles. This approach is a response to longstanding concerns from public transit advocates about congestion in the area, which is exacerbated by double-parked cars blocking existing lanes. Mamdani emphasized the need for faster bus services, stating, “Too many New Yorkers have seen their precious time treated with casual disdain.”
In addition to the Bronx project, the Ashland Place bike lane aims to connect existing protected segments from Dumbo to Sunset Park. This project had been previously canceled nearly three years ago due to local opposition but is now being revived as part of Mamdani's commitment to improving cycling infrastructure.
Official Statements & Responses
MTA Chair Janno Lieber expressed support for Mamdani's initiatives, highlighting the importance of faster bus services. He noted that discussions regarding the mayor's proposal to make city buses free would continue, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the financial implications. Lieber pointed out that bus fare revenue is projected to reach nearly $1 billion annually, raising questions about how eliminating fares could affect service planning and funding.
Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn stated, “New Yorkers deserve fast, reliable bus service and to feel safe when they’re traveling with their families and loved ones on city streets.”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the positive reception from some transit advocates, there has been criticism regarding the lack of community engagement in the planning process. Peter Madonia, chairman of the Belmont Business Improvement District, expressed concerns about the potential for increased congestion, stating, “The road is already quite congested, and this is going to make it infinitely worse.” He suggested that enforcing existing parking laws would be a more effective solution.
What's Next
Construction timelines for the new bus and bike lanes are expected to be released in the coming weeks. Mamdani's administration has committed to prioritizing street redesigns and expanding protected bike lanes across various neighborhoods, including Midwood, Flatbush, and East Flatbush.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Too many New Yorkers have seen their precious time treated with casual disdain, as if it does not matter,” — Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City
- “New Yorkers deserve fast, reliable bus service and to feel safe when they’re traveling with their families and loved ones on city streets,” — Mike Flynn, Transportation Commissioner
- “The road is already quite congested, and this is going to make it infinitely worse.” — Peter Madonia, Chairman of the Belmont Business Improvement District
