New bus and bike lanes planned along B38 route could come at a cost for drivers
The project, which stretches along DeKalb and Lafayette avenues from Bedford-Stuyvesant to Downtown Brooklyn, is part of the city's ongoing effort to improve bus service and reduce travel times for commuters.
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Residents along the B38 bus route could soon see major changes to their streets as New York City moves forward with plans to add new bus lanes and protected bike lanes through parts of Brooklyn.
The project, which stretches along DeKalb and Lafayette avenues from Bedford-Stuyvesant to Downtown Brooklyn, is part of the city's ongoing effort to improve bus service and reduce travel times for commuters.
According to the MTA, roughly 18,000 riders use the B38 bus route. Transportation officials say the proposed changes could cut travel times by as much as 20%.
Some riders welcome the idea of faster service.
"It depends on what bus you catch, the limited or the regular," one B38 rider told News 12 when asked about wait times.
Others aren't convinced the route needs additional improvements.
"You see this bus lane from Malcolm X to Stuyvesant. Can it get any faster?" one resident questioned.
One example of the redesign can be seen at DeKalb Avenue and Malcolm X Boulevard.
Under the proposal, one parking lane would become a dedicated bus lane weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The existing traffic lane would remain in place, while the current bike lane and parking lane configuration would be adjusted.
The Department of Transportation says the goal is to improve reliability for bus riders while also creating safer infrastructure for cyclists.
While many residents said they support adding protected bike lanes as cycling continues to grow in popularity, some worry the project will make parking even more difficult.
"This block is for the homeowners. This is the only place we can park," one resident said. "Where are we going to put our cars? It's difficult. So, no, I'm against that."
"You think it's something simple, you park in front of your house, get some groceries out and go park," said Bedford-Stuyvesant resident Giles. "Now you have to park here and walk across the street. That's a huge inconvenience."
The city plans to begin installations this fall and will continue monitoring the corridor through 2027.
