New York City, November 11, 2025
Transit advocates in New York City have announced the winners of the 2025 Pokey and Schleppie Awards, recognizing the slowest and least reliable bus routes in the city. The M42 bus route received the Pokey Award for its slow average speed, while the Q8 bus route earned the Schleppie Award for lengthy wait times. A new category, the Mazel Award for Most Improved Routes, was introduced this year, recognizing the M79 and SIM32 for enhancements. The event highlights the need for improved transit efficiency amid ongoing challenges faced by the MTA.
New York City Transit Advocates Announce 2025 Pokey and Schleppie Awards
New York City transit advocates have announced the winners of the 2025 Pokey and Schleppie Awards, which highlight the slowest and least reliable bus routes in the city. The M42 bus route received the Pokey Award for its sluggish average speed of 5.25 miles per hour, while the Q8 route earned the Schleppie Award due to passengers experiencing an average wait time 3.62 minutes longer than the scheduled interval between buses.
A new category, the Mazel Award for Most Improved Routes, was introduced this year, with the M79 and SIM32 routes recognized for significant improvements in service quality and reliability.
The awards were presented by the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) and other transit advocacy organizations during their annual event. This initiative aims to draw attention to persistent issues in the city’s bus system, infusing humor while addressing serious concerns regarding transit efficiency and dependability.
In response to the ongoing challenges faced by the bus system, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has been implementing several programs aimed at improving service. Measures include the introduction of front-facing cameras that help issue tickets to drivers obstructing bus lanes, resulting in smoother bus operations. Moreover, the implementation of congestion pricing in the Central Business District has significantly reduced traffic congestion, thereby benefiting bus travel times. The MTA also plans to expand the OMNY system and introduce proof of payment to allow all-door boarding, further enhancing the speed and efficiency of bus services.
These actions indicate a concerted effort to resolve longstanding issues in New York City’s bus network, striving to provide faster and more reliable transit options for the thousands of daily commuters who rely on public transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Pokey and Schleppie Awards?
The Pokey and Schleppie Awards are annual recognitions presented by transit advocates to highlight the slowest and least reliable bus routes in New York City. The Pokey Award is given to the bus route with the lowest average speed, while the Schleppie Award is awarded to the route with the most significant delays in scheduled wait times.
Which bus routes received the 2025 Pokey and Schleppie Awards?
The M42 bus route received the Pokey Award for its average speed of 5.25 miles per hour, and the Q8 route earned the Schleppie Award due to passengers experiencing an average wait time 3.62 minutes longer than scheduled.
What is the Mazel Award?
The Mazel Award is a new category introduced this year to recognize the Most Improved Routes in New York City’s bus system. The M79 and SIM32 routes were honored for their significant enhancements in service quality and reliability.
What measures is the MTA taking to improve bus service?
The MTA has implemented several initiatives, including the use of front-facing cameras to ticket vehicles obstructing bus lanes, the introduction of congestion pricing to reduce traffic congestion, and plans to expand the OMNY system and introduce proof of payment to facilitate all-door boarding, all aimed at enhancing bus speed and efficiency.
Key Features of the 2025 Pokey and Schleppie Awards
| Award | Recipient | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Pokey Award | M42 Bus Route | Average speed of 5.25 miles per hour |
| Schleppie Award | Q8 Bus Route | Passengers experience an average wait time 3.62 minutes longer than scheduled |
| Mazel Award | M79 and SIM32 Bus Routes | Significant improvements in service quality and reliability |
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