A new dedicated busway opened on Tremont Avenue in the Bronx on September 19, 2026, marking the borough’s first such corridor for public transit. The lane is reserved exclusively for buses, separating them from general traffic and allowing vehicles to travel without the usual congestion that has plagued the street.
Tremont Avenue has long been noted for sluggish bus movement, especially along the BX36 route, which during peak periods has been observed moving at only five miles per hour. This slow pace has contributed to lengthy travel times for commuters relying on the route and has highlighted the need for a more efficient solution.
The newly created busway provides a continuous strip along the avenue where buses can operate without sharing the road with cars and trucks. By offering a clear path, the corridor is expected to improve the consistency of service and reduce the delays that have become commonplace during rush hour.
Early expectations suggest that the separation of buses from regular traffic will allow speeds to rise above the previously recorded five miles per hour, thereby shortening overall trip durations for riders. Faster, more reliable service could also encourage additional passengers to choose the bus over other modes of transportation, potentially easing overall congestion on the avenue.
As the Bronx’s inaugural busway, the Tremont Avenue project serves as a pilot for similar initiatives elsewhere in the borough. Its performance will likely inform future decisions about expanding dedicated transit lanes to other congested streets, aiming to enhance mobility for residents across the area.