Updated 02/14/2010 03:25 PM
Hunters Point Shuttle Has Residents On Board
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Despite the disruptions still surrounding the 7 train, businesses in Hunters Point finally got some relief this weekend thanks to a community effort. NY1's CeFaan Kim filed the following report.For nine more weekends there will be no 7 train service running from Manhattan to Queensborough Plaza, while the Metropolitan Transportation Authority conducts repair work.
It's nothing new for residents in Hunters Point who have been dealing with months of no weekend service every year, for the past several years.
The MTA does provide shuttle bus service from Hunters Point to Queensboro Plaza, but that means riders have to travel in the opposite direction before heading into Manhattan.
"It takes a long time, there's no schedules or anything. It adds about 45 minutes to a trip that only takes 10 minutes," said Hunters Point resident Jodie Dresch.
Local business owners have been begging the MTA for a direct one-stop shuttle into Manhattan from Hunters Point, which is the first stop in Queens. They say the service disruptions also discourage non-residents from coming to shop. The MTA says a direct shuttle isn't an option because it's not the quickest, most reliable way to make the trip.
This year, business owners decided they had enough and sponsored their own free direct shuttle bus service. A ride on the shuttle takes just five to 10 minutes.
"I can't believe they're doing it free. It's just amazing, I'd actually pay money for this," said Hunters Point resident Joe Batutis.
The direct shuttle makes two runs per hour and with room to fit 24 riders, trip after trip, the shuttle is packed. It runs from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. on weekends, picking up at passengers at Park Avenue and 42nd Street in Manhattan and Vernon Boulevard and 50th Avenue in Queens.
"Now we have a whole bunch of tourists in Manhattan that saw the news coverage on NY1, they want to come to Long Island City. They want to come to the parks and the art galleries here," said Brian Adams of the Hunters Point Merchants Association.
Adams says based on the heavy turnout on Saturday -- its first day running -- he thinks they will be able to come up with the money to fund the service through the duration of the 7 train's repair work.
For free boarding passes, residents can visit the Solarium Condominium on 48th Avenue or print them out online at http://www.LICityGuide.com.