Something big is coming to the streets of Queens this summer. Something that could seriously change the way you get around. And no, it’s not another traffic jam on Queens Blvd. 😉
Starting June 29, the long-anticipated Queens Bus Network Redesign officially rolls out. And whether you’re a daily commuter, weekend explorer, or just someone who’s ever waited too long for a bus that never came, this one’s for you.
A New Chapter for Queens Commuters
Let’s be real: our bus system has needed an update for a while. The good news? The MTA has been listening. After five years of community feedback, pop-up meetings, and public input, Queens is getting a transit refresh that’s long overdue.
Here’s what’s changing in Phase 1 (June 29):
- 16 brand new routes
- 67 existing routes revamped
- 5 routes retired
Then on August 31, Phase 2 kicks in:
- 1 new route
- 37 route updates
- 1 more route discontinued
That’s over 100 changes designed to make commuting faster, easier, and more reliable. Translation: less waiting, fewer transfers, and more direct paths to where you’re going.
More Routes, More Options
The total number of bus routes in Queens will rise from 113 to 124. Of those, 94 will be local and 30 will be express, including something brand new: 25 “Rush” routes designed to get you to major subway or rail hubs faster.
If you’ve ever zigzagged your way across Queens with multiple transfers, you know how much of a game-changer this could be. Imagine fewer detours and more time actually living your life, not just commuting to it.
Built by the Community, For the Community
What makes this redesign special isn’t just the scale, it’s the collaboration. Over 250 community outreach events shaped this plan. Thousands of Queens residents, people just like you and me, spoke up about what wasn’t working, and the MTA listened.
This isn’t some top-down transit experiment. It’s a plan built with real feedback, real neighborhoods, and real riders in mind.
How to Prep for the Switch
With big changes ahead, now’s the time to start planning. Thankfully, the MTA has launched a few helpful tools:
Route Lookup Tool – Easy to use, even has Google Translate built-in.
Future Trip Planner – Plug in your starting point and destination to see how your route will look once Phase 2 is live.
Whether you take the Q32 to Midtown or the Q66 across Roosevelt, now’s the time to see what’s shifting and get ahead of the curve.
What to Expect This Spring & Summer
The MTA isn’t just flipping the switch without warning. You’ll start seeing:
- New signage at bus stops
- Announcements on buses and in stations
- Pop-up events and info booths across the borough
I’ll also be keeping an eye on updates, and you better believe I’ll be sharing tips, shortcuts, and simplified info to help you stay informed.
What This Means for Queens
As someone who lives here, works here, raises a family here, and has taken more than a few Queens buses, I can say this with confidence:
This is more than a transit update. It’s a quality-of-life upgrade.
Easier commutes mean:
- More time with your family
- Less stress during your daily routine
- Better access to job centers, schools, and small businesses
- And a stronger connection between Queens neighborhoods
Whether you’re heading to Astoria, Forest Hills, Jackson Heights, or Jamaica, these changes are going to move us—literally and figuratively.
A Better Commute = A Better Place to Call Home
If you’re thinking about buying in Queens or just looking for a neighborhood that fits your new commuting needs, I’d love to help you map it out.
There’s nothing like a great home that’s also well-connected.
Let’s find you the perfect place where life—not just the bus—runs on time. Book a call here.
Here’s to faster rides, fewer transfers, and a better-connected Queens.
Let’s ride into this next chapter—together.
Photo Credit: Barbara Russo-Lennon