NYC To Use Cameras To Enforce Bus Lane Rules
NEW YORK (CBS 2) -- In an effort to combat the ongoing bus lane turf war between buses and cars, New York City is about to employ a new tool -- cameras.
Starting Monday, bus lanes on First and Second avenues will be monitored by video cameras full-time. If caught on camera in a bus lane during restricted hours, drivers could be fined between $115 and $150.
With vehicles all vying for shrinking real estate and buses forced to swerve around cars, city officials hope it will curb the problem.
"I think they will be a deterrent for drivers, Police Commissioner Ray Kelly said, "it's a pretty hefty summons and I believe the system is going to work."
Drivers will also be prohibited from off-loading anything in the lanes during posted hours. It is permissible to drop off or pick up a passenger by the curb if there is no alternative place, but it must be done quickly.
Jeremy Soffin of the MTA said the city's 2.8 million bus riders deserve an unimpeded ride.
We're starting this small right now. We have the ability to use the cameras on select bus routes, but the hope is when people see how effective it is, we'll be able to spread it to the whole system, Soffin told CBS 2's Don Dahler.
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