The MTA has announced a truck ban on its bridges in New York City due to heavy winds, effective from 4 p.m. to midnight. This ban includes all seven MTA bridges, notably the Whitestone and Throggs Neck, which are critical transit routes for commercial vehicles.
The decision comes as weather conditions pose a risk to high-profile vehicles, with the MTA taking precautionary measures to ensure safety on its infrastructure. The ban specifically targets empty tractor-trailers and tandem trucks, which are more susceptible to being affected by strong winds.
In addition to the truck ban, the MTA has also revealed plans to enhance its Automated Camera Enforcement (ACE) programme. Starting soon, two additional bus routes, the Q60 and B12, will be included in a 60-day warning period aimed at reducing violations of busway and bus lane usage.
During this warning period, vehicles found improperly using these lanes will receive notices in the mail, allowing for a grace period before penalties are enforced. The ACE programme, which has been operational since July 2024, aims to improve bus speeds and reduce collisions and emissions across the city.
Currently, approximately 1,600 buses are equipped with ACE technology, covering 560 miles of routes. The implementation of this system has reportedly led to a 30% increase in bus speeds on some routes, alongside a 20% reduction in collisions and a 40% decrease in blocked bus stops.
In a separate incident, a 30-year-old woman was stabbed while waiting for an MTA bus in Queens. The attack occurred near 94th St. and 23rd Ave. in East Elmhurst, where the victim was stabbed in the back and left arm. She was subsequently taken to Elmhurst Hospital in stable condition.
The attacker fled the scene and is currently being sought by police. This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns surrounding public transportation in the city.
As the MTA enforces these new measures, officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The agency continues to prioritize the safety of its passengers and the integrity of its transit systems amid challenging weather conditions and public safety incidents.
