The Forgotten B35 Bus Stops of Brooklyn: A Deep Dive into the Most Used Bus Route

The B35 Bus is one of the most frequently used bus routes in Brooklyn, New N.Y. With over 30,000 passengers per day, it connects several densely populated neighborhoods, including Sunset Park, Kensington, and Bay Ridge. However, the current bus stops along the B35 route have raised concerns among locals and transportation experts, who argue that they lack sufficient shelter, lighting, and accessibility. This article will delve into the issues plaguing the B35 bus stops, explore efforts to improve infrastructure, and examine the impact on riders.

The B35 bus route spans a total of 15 miles, starting at the 9th Avenue and 62nd Street terminal in Sunset Park and ending at the 86th Street and 5th Avenue terminal in Bay Ridge. Along the way, it passes through various neighborhoods, including Bensonhurst, Clarendon, and Bath Beach.

While the bus itself is a vital lifeline for many residents, the current state of the bus stops has been a subject of criticism. According to a study by the Riders Alliance, a transit advocacy group, many B35 bus stops lack basic amenities such as shelters, causing passengers to be exposed to the elements.

This lack of infrastructure is exacerbated by the route's busy nature, with an average daily ridership of 30,000 passengers, the highest of any bus route in Brooklyn.

Additionally, many bus stops lack sufficient lighting, making it difficult for riders to read schedules or feel safe at night. "The B35 bus route is one of the busiest in Brooklyn, and it's shocking that many of the bus stops along the way are inadequate," said Andrew Albert, a spokesperson for the Riders Alliance. "Passengers deserve better – they deserve shelters, proper lighting, and comfortable seating. It's a fundamental aspect of public transportation."

Another issue plaguing the B35 bus stops is accessibility. Many stops lack ramps or platforms, making it difficult or impossible for riders with disabilities to board the bus. This is not only a matter of convenience; it's also a matter of safety. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), public transportation systems must provide equal access for individuals with disabilities. In a statement to the New York City Council in 2020, the MTA acknowledged that many B35 bus stops lacked the required accessibility features.

So, what can be done to address these issues? The MTA has implemented several improvements to the B35 bus route in recent years, including the installation of new bus shelters and signage. However, more needs to be done.

Here are some initiatives being taken by the MTA and other organizations to improve the B35 bus stops:

• **MTA's Capital Plan**: The MTA's long-term plan to improve the city's public transportation system includes $400 million in funding for bus stop renovations and expansions. A significant portion of this funding is allocated for the B35 route.

• **Bus Stop Improvements Grant Program**: The NYC Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) offers grants to community groups and organizations to improve bus stops through its Bus Stop Improvements Grant Program. Grants can be used for a variety of purposes, including the installation of shelters, lighting, and accessibility features.

• **Riders Alliance Advocacy**: The Riders Alliance has been actively advocating for improved infrastructure along the B35 route, pushing the MTA to prioritize stop upgrades and increased accessibility. "The MTA has made progress, but there's still much work to be done," Albert said. "We'll continue to push for better bus stops, safer bus stops, and accessible bus stops."

• **Community Engagement**: Local community groups and organizations are also working to improve the B35 bus stops. For example, the Bay Ridge Eyes on the Street Initiative has successfully advocated for improved lighting and additional shelters along the route.

Examples of successful B35 bus stop renovations include:

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**94th Street and 4th Avenue Bus Stop**: Recently renovated with new shelters, improved lighting, and accessibility features, this bus stop is a model for what the rest of the route could look like.

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**86th Street and 5th Avenue Bus Stop**: This bus stop has been upgraded with a new canopy and a bus terminal providing a more comfortable and sheltered wait area for passengers.

While there has been progress, there is still much work to be done to bring the B35 bus stops up to par with the demands of the busiest bus route in Brooklyn. The MTA, NYCDOT, and community organizations must continue to work together to address the issues faced by B35 bus passengers. "The B35 bus route is a critical component of Brooklyn's transportation infrastructure," Albert said. "By investing in improved bus stops, we're investing in the safety and accessibility of our communities."