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MTA Announces Restoration Of More Than A Dozen Bus Lines Shut Down By 2010 Transportation Cuts

NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- The resurrection of the MTA's B39 bus line between Williamsburg and the Lower East Side has Brooklyn residents ecstatic.

Budget constraints caused the MTA to sideline the route, along with over a dozen others in 2010. Many people, who depend on the MTA to get to and from Manhattan, told 1010 WINS reporter Gary Baumgarten that the bus line's absence has caused considerable hardship.

"That's excellent, nobody has to wait for the J-train, this really helps the handicapped," said Brandon.

Unreliable elevator service at subway stations has made it difficult for handicapped riders to take the train.

"At the subway station, sometimes I have to go up the stairs, so the bus is easier for me," said Juan, who walks with the help of a cane.

Brooklyn Riders Elated As B39 Service Returns

The restorations will begin on Jan 6, and will benefit an estimated 50,000 riders according to the MTA. City Transit President Thomas Prendergrast called the announcement 'great news'.

"We are here to provide mass transit service and that we are able to restore some earlier service cuts while at the same time extending service along several routes is great news for us to share," he said.

A full list of service restorations is available here.

Were you affected by the service cuts? Let us know in our comments section below...

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