April 24, 2014 By Christian Murray
The MTA bus that connects Long Island City with Astoria, via Vernon Blvd., might start running on weekends.
The MTA has put forward a proposal that would see expanded Q103 weekday service, accompanied by a weekend schedule. The MTA will make a final decision on April 28 and, if approved, a pilot program would begin in June.
“At long last, weekend service on the Q103 bus line is in sight,” said State Sen. Mike Gianaris. “I urge the MTA to approve this service,” he said, adding that there is a greater need for public transportation in the area as more people flock to restaurants, parks, and cultural institutions.
The announcement comes just eight months after the MTA expanded its weekday service—when the number of daily trips on the Q103 was increased from 25 to 30. However, at the time, local leaders expressed disappointment that the increased service neglected to include weekend service.
With the latest proposal, local leaders and many of the local cultural institutions are urging the MTA to adopt it.
“With this plan, Astoria and LIC residents would see a much-needed trial expansion of Q103 service beginning this summer,” Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas said. “I urge the MTA to move forward in adopting this proposal and eventually hope to see this service expansion become permanent.”
