NYC In Focus

By Howard Weiss for NYCInFocus.com

On July 9, 2024, community leaders, activists, and Brooklyn residents gathered at the bustling intersection of Flatbush Avenue and Empire Boulevard to launch the FastBusAve campaign. Organized by the Riders Alliance, this campaign aims to secure faster and more reliable bus service along Flatbush Avenue, an eight-mile corridor that serves as a critical lifeline for thousands of daily commuters.

The rally was a dynamic show of unity, with passionate speeches, vibrant signage, and enthusiastic calls for change echoing through the streets.

The Need for #FastBusAve

Flatbush Avenue is one of Brooklyn’s busiest corridors, yet its current bus service leaves much to be desired. Frequent delays, overcrowded buses, and inconsistent schedules have long plagued the community. Residents and local leaders are calling for dedicated bus lanes and transit signal priority to address these issues and ensure a smoother commute for all.

Council Member Crystal Hudson underscored the campaign’s importance, stating:

“Let’s make Flatbush Avenue into #FastBusAvenue! Our communities deserve better bus service.”

Her remarks were echoed by Council Member Rita Joseph, a longtime advocate for public transit improvements:

“Bus riders are tired of slow, unreliable service on Flatbush Ave. Join us in demanding better!”

Key Figures and Supporters

The campaign launch was attended by notable public figures, including:

• Jumaane Williams, NYC Public Advocate, who stressed the broader impact of reliable transit on equity and accessibility.

• Ethan Norville, Transportation Chair for Brooklyn Community District 9, who emphasized the economic benefits of efficient public transit.

In addition, the Transit Workers Union Local 100 and New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) pledged their support, strengthening the campaign’s reach and influence.

A Rallying Cry for Change

The event wasn’t just about speeches—it was a call to action. Community members shared personal stories of missed appointments, extended commutes, and the daily frustration of relying on unreliable buses. The FastBusAve campaign provides a platform for these voices, turning collective frustration into actionable demands.

Organizers encouraged attendees to:

1. Sign petitions for dedicated bus lanes on Flatbush Avenue.

2. Engage elected officials to prioritize public transit in their agendas.

3. Spread the word by using the hashtag #FastBusAve on social media.

Next Steps for FastBusAve

The Riders Alliance plans to:

• Organize follow-up events and rallies to keep the momentum going.

• Push for meetings with city officials and the Department of Transportation.

• Release data-driven reports showcasing the benefits of bus lane improvements for Flatbush Avenue.

Why FastBusAve Matters

Better bus service isn’t just about convenience—it’s about equity, economic opportunity, and quality of life. For many residents, buses are the most affordable and accessible mode of transportation. Improving service along Flatbush Avenue can make a tangible difference in their daily lives, enabling easier access to jobs, schools, and healthcare.

Join the Movement

If you’re tired of slow buses and want to see Flatbush Avenue transformed into #FastBusAve, now is the time to act. Together, we can create a transit system that works for everyone.

📍 Location of Rally: Flatbush Avenue & Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY

#FastBusAve #FlatbushAvenue #BrooklynTransit #PublicTransitMatters