Anyone concerned about the problems caused by the booming Chinatown bus business will want to check out a new report from the New York Department of City Planning. While there are no huge revelations, the study offers a comprehensive look at the impact the private/interstate bus companies are having on the neighborhood. It recommends building a new bus terminal to alleviate curbside gridlock, but acknowledges there’s no obvious place to put a depot downtown. Short term, the study suggests implementing a permit system, making it easier for the NYPD to deal with the situation (this would require a new state law).
In the meantime, there is something you can do. During the summer, the NYPD ticketed and towed dozens of buses that overstayed their curbside welcome. While they don’t have the resources to sustain a mass-ticketing operation, Police officials have said they will respond to specific problems that arise. To file a complaint, visit Community Board 3’s web site and fill out this form.
You can download the City Planning report here. chinatown_final_report.
