Manhattan Elected Officials' Statement on Enforcement of Intercity Bus Regulations in Chinatown

NEW YORK – Today, State Senator Daniel Squadron, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Councilmember Margaret Chin, and Borough President Gale Brewer released the following statement regarding the enforcement of intercity bus regulations in Chinatown:

"Today, DOT and the NYPD committed to enforcing intercity bus permit regulations no later than August 15 at a meeting at Senator Squadron’s office co-hosted by Speaker Silver, Councilmember Chin, Borough President Brewer, and Community Board 3. The permit system was created by legislation authored by Squadron and Silver.

"We called the meeting because of the ongoing "wild west” atmosphere created by intercity buses in our community. While there is also an ongoing discussion about lawful permits, it will be impossible to understand our challenge without effective enforcement. We are pleased that the city agencies and local precincts are committed to working as partners with us to take the challenge.

"Our offices look forward to working collaboratively with the local police precincts, DOT, Community Board 3, and local bus operators to ensure the permit system is enforced properly and within the time frame DOT and NYPD have committed to. This is an important step to improving the quality of life of Chinatown and Lower East Side residents."