Community Invited to Review Transit Options

Buffalo, NY . . .The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today that a public open house will be held Thursday, June 11, for the Amherst-Buffalo Corridor Transit Options Study. The public will have an opportunity to learn about the study status, review the list of alternative transit options being considered, and provide their feedback.

The NFTA is working with the Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transit Council to assess options for more and improved transit connections from Amherst to Buffalo and all points in between. The Amherst-Buffalo Corridor currently supports NFTA Metro's highest transit ridership in the region, and demand is expected to grow. In addition, there are current plans for significant development in portions of the Corridor, including the UB 2020 Plan to expand, enhance, and connect the three University of Buffalo campuses. These needs make the timing right to decide now on new transit options. This study has been underway since 2013 and a range of feasible alternatives is now ready for stakeholder input.

The public open house will be held in Room 100 of Allen Hall at the University of Buffalo South Campus, 3435 Main Street, Buffalo. Doors will open at 4 p.m., with an open house until 8 p.m. Over the past 18 months a long list of all the possible alternatives has been analyzed both from a technical engineering standpoint and with consideration of public/stakeholder ideas and concerns offered to date. That long list has been narrowed down and a shorter list of most viable options is now ready for review and comment by all stakeholders. The public are invited to drop in at their convenience to visit the information stations and provide input.

Area residents, students, business owners, commuters, and all interested parties are encouraged to attend. Public opinion and information collected will be an important component in identifying the ‘Locally Preferred' or single option that best meets the needs for transit between Amherst and Buffalo, while also meeting a wide range of engineering, community, and environmental criteria.

Free parking and entry (including ADA access) is at the Main Street side of Allen Hall. Nearby transit service includes Metro Rail to University Station and Metro bus Routes #5, 8, 12, 13, 19, 44, 47, or 48.

If special accommodations or language assistance services are needed (translation or interpretation), individuals should contact Rachel Maloney 716- 855-7499 no later than two weeks in advance of the meeting. These services will be provided free.

To provide comments or to read additional information regarding this study, please click here to.nfta.com.

Buffalo, NY . . .One side of the 600 Block of Main Street will be closed to vehicles Sunday, May 24, as a result of the running of the Buffalo Marathon, the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today.

The inbound or west lane of Main Street will be closed from Tupper Street to Chippewa Street starting at 7 a.m. to approximately noon, due to the routing of the Buffalo Marathon. The outbound or east lane will be open during this time.

Metro Rail will be operating single tracking service on the inbound track between Seneca Street Station and Allen Medical Campus Station during this time. Outbound passengers using a mobility device must board the last car to be able to exit at platform level at an aboveground station.

Regular rail service will operate between Allen Medical Campus Station and University Station.

Buffalo, NY . . .The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today that the University at Buffalo's project of building a new School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences facility atop the existing Allen Medical Campus Metro Rail Station has reached the point where the station can safely be reopened to service.

The station will be reopened to full service Monday, May 18. It was closed April 20, as a result of ongoing construction taking place at the rail station, which rendered it inoperable.

In addition, as the project continues to moves forward, the contractor has notified the NFTA that an additional closing will be required in mid-June for approximately 17 days. The exact date will be announced as soon as it is confirmed by the contractor.

During the period the station is closed, Metro will continue to provide free, daily shuttle service to and from the Summer Best Station for customers to access areas adjacent to the Allen Medical Campus Station. Shuttle intervals will coincide with the daily rail schedule. Passengers need to exit the train at Summer Best Station to access the shuttle service. The train will service ALL other stations during the closure period.

A map of the shuttle route and additional Metro information can be found at nfta.com.

Immediate Openings Available

Buffalo, NY . . .The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that its Metro Bus division is sponsoring an Open House Thursday, April 30, in an effort to recruit individuals interested in immediate, full-time employment as a MetroLink bus operator.

Metro is currently looking for qualified bus operators seeking steady employment, guaranteed wage increases, along with a comprehensive benefit package.

Candidates must be at least 21 years of age, possess a high school diploma or equivalent, a NYS commercial driver's license, Class B minimum with passenger and air break endorsements or a permit for same with the ability to obtain a full license within eight weeks of employment.

The Open House will take place from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Metro's Babcock Station, 721 New Babcock Street, Buffalo, NY.

Interested individuals may download an application at nfta.com or obtain one during the Open House.

Buffalo & Niagara Falls Airports Honored, Along With Three Employees

Buffalo, NY . . .The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport have each received awards for excellence at the 49th Annual International Aviation Snow Symposium, in addition to an Airfield Operator of the Year honor and an Idea Corner Award for an ice-inspired fabrication design.

The Northeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives recognized the BNIA's snow removal team for outstanding performance this past winter with a Balchen/Post Award. The Buffalo Airport never closed in one of the harshest winters on record. This is the ninth time the airport has been honored in the 39-year history of the award. Buffalo won in the medium-size airport classification.

The Niagara Falls International Airport competes in the small airport class. This year is marks the fifth time it has been recognized with a Balchen/Post honor. The airfield crew at Niagara Falls also fought an exceptionally harsh winter, and maintained a perfect safety record.

Buffalo Airport staff has been honored with an Idea Corner Award for innovation in the field. Asst. Supervisor of Maintenance Peter Robbins and Mechanic John Krasniewski created a housing apparatus that keeps hydraulic hoses safe from ice buildup. It turned out to be very useful this past year.

Christopher McBride, airfield operator at the Buffalo Airport, is this year's Operator of the Year. McBride's commitment to keeping the Buffalo airfield clear and safe this past winter made him stand out among an already remarkable crew.

Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA executive director, said, "Four awards is a monumental achievement. The men and women who keep our runways safe and operational all winter do an amazing job. It is wonderful to see them receive the recognition they deserve."

"The fact the our runways remained open all winter is nothing short of remarkable," said William R. Vanecek, NFTA Director of Aviation. "These awards speak volumes about the dedication and ability of our airfield crew, who work around the clock, including being away from their families on holidays and missing family functions while working to maintain the safety of our runways."

Balchen/Post nominations come from airlines, pilots, general aviation officials, hotel owners, corporate pilots and ground transportation operators. An independent selection committee sorts recommendations based on airport size (determined by the number of flights in and out of the airport per year) and makes final award determinations. In making their selections, the committee considers a crew's ability to keep the airport runways free of ice and snow, snow removal plans, the size of area to be cleared, equipment readiness, personnel training and overall safety awareness.

Buffalo, NY . . .The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority hosted a luncheon at the Protocol Restaurant, 6766 Transit Rd., Williamsville, Sunday, April 19, to recognize the outstanding safety performance of Metro bus and train operators, and vehicle maintenance workers. In addition, the authority saluted employees who have reached 25 years of employment with the NFTA.

Metro recognized 22 operators for safely operating their vehicles in excess of 10, 20 or 30 years. Seven maintenance employees were congratulated for having a 10-year safety record. Nine NFTA employees celebrated a silver anniversary.

Bus Supervisor, Antoine Moore was recognized with an Extra Mile award, reserved for individuals who have gone above and beyond their usual duties. This past winter, Moore rescued a woman stuck on railroad tracks.

NFTA Chairman, Howard A. Zemsky said, "We are exceedingly proud to have Antoine Moore as part of the NFTA family. He embodies the kind of dedication to the community we all try to emulate."

Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA executive director said, "Driving for hours everyday, in Western New York weather, and not having a single accident for ten years is outstanding. Driving for 30 years without an accident is the accomplishment of true professionals. Our safety record on the maintenance side is no less amazing. It is an honor to stand here with this group today."

Buffalo, NY . . .The Niagara Frontier Transportation authority announced today that Metro's Allen Medical Rail Station will close temporarily as of Monday, April 20, and until further notice.

Construction of the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences will take place over the existing rail station rendering the station inoperable.

During this time, Metro will provide free shuttle service to and from the Summer Best Station, maintaining customer access to Allen Medical Campus Station. Shuttle times will coincide with the daily rail schedule. Passengers need to exit trains at Summer Best Station to utilize the shuttle service.

A map of the shuttle route and additional Metro information can be found at metro.nfta.com.

Niagara Falls, NY . . .

Niagara Falls International Airport to Host Public Workshop
Sustainable Master Plan Update to be Presented

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is inviting residents from local communities to attend the second and final public workshop to review details of the Niagara Falls International Airport Sustainable Master Plan, Tuesday, April 14.

The informational workshop will be held in the Niagara Falls International Airport, 2035 Niagara Falls Blvd., from 6-8 p.m. A brief presentation detailing the highlights and key components of the Master Plan planning process will begin at 6:30 p.m. Free parking will be available in the general passenger lots for those attending the meeting. Refreshments will be served.

William R. Vanecek, NFTA Director of Aviation said, "We welcome the opportunity to work with the Niagara community to help craft a Master Plan that ensures the airport will continue to increase its positive economic impact for the region, while simultaneously creating a positive experience for all users of the facility."

McFarland Johnson, the NFIA Master Plan consultants, along with representatives from the NFTA will be present to host the interactive workshop and discuss the draft findings to date.

This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for interested citizens from neighboring communities to learn about potential future development at the airport. Materials for the 20-year planning horizon will include an overview of existing facilities, forecasts of aviation activity, facility requirements, environmental findings, development alternatives and a recommended plan.

For additional information contact Mark Clark, NFTA Sr. Aviation Planner at 630-6133, via email at mark_clark@nfta.com or go online to niagarafallsairport.com and click on the About the Airport tab at the top of the page.

-30-

Sustainable Master Plan Update to be Presented

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is inviting residents from local communities to attend the second and final public workshop to review details of the Niagara Falls International Airport Sustainable Master Plan, Tuesday, April 14.

The informational workshop will be held in the Niagara Falls International Airport, 2035 Niagara Falls Blvd., from 6-8 p.m. A brief presentation detailing the highlights and key components of the Master Plan planning process will begin at 6:30 p.m. Free parking will be available in the general passenger lots for those attending the meeting. Refreshments will be served.

William R. Vanecek, NFTA Director of Aviation said, "We welcome the opportunity to work with the Niagara community to help craft a Master Plan that ensures the airport will continue to increase its positive economic impact for the region, while simultaneously creating a positive experience for all users of the facility."

McFarland Johnson, the NFIA Master Plan consultants, along with representatives from the NFTA will be present to host the interactive workshop and discuss the draft findings to date.

This interactive workshop will provide an opportunity for interested citizens from neighboring communities to learn about potential future development at the airport. Materials for the 20-year planning horizon will include an overview of existing facilities, forecasts of aviation activity, facility requirements, environmental findings, development alternatives and a recommended plan.

For additional information contact Mark Clark, NFTA Sr. Aviation Planner at 630-6133, via email at mark_clark@nfta.com or go online to niagarafallsairport.com and click on the About the Airport tab at the top of the page.

Senator Schumer, Congressman Higgins, the NFTA, and Community Leaders Emphasize the Need for Long-term Federal Investment in Public Transportation Infrastructure before Expiration of Federal Transportation Funding May 31, 2015

Buffalo, NY . . . With the future of America's public transportation infrastructure on the line, Senator Schumer, Congressman Higgins and transportation and community leaders from Western New York unite on April 9, 2015 with the voices of 216 participating organizations in more than 140 communities across the country to focus on the urgency of the passage of a long-term federal transportation bill.

The current federal transportation funding bill, Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), is set to expire on May 31, 2015. Without a long-term federal transportation funding bill, the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority and public transit systems across the country will face tremendous uncertainty. Transportation is the backbone of our local and national economy. A long-term transportation bill is needed for better and expanded transportation options, and to continue to grow our economy.

Public transportation services provided by the NFTA connect thousands of Western New York residents and visitors to employment, school, health care and entertainment across the region. Simply put, where public transportation goes community grows. Investment in public transportation produces significant economic impacts with every $1 invested generating $4 in economic benefits. More than $227 billion in economic productivity is at risk to the nation's economy over the next six years without long-term federal investment in public transit according to a new analysis by the American Public Transportation Association.

Senator Charles Schumer said, "Investing in our nation's infrastructure is critical to our economy. The current lack of investment has led to crumbling roads and bridges, unsafe conditions on our transit networks, and has allowed new economic development opportunities to pass us by. I have been a vocal supporter of passing a long-term transportation bill that increases spending on these programs because it will help each and every corner of New York State and our country."

"We've seen locally how rebuilding infrastructure not only creates jobs and rehabilitates roadways but has the potential to transform our business districts, neighborhoods, and waterfront," said Congressman Brian Higgins, a proponent of a 5-year, $1.2 trillion program of federal infrastructure investment. "In recent years we've spent a great deal of time and resources rebuilding the roads and bridges of Iraq and Afghanistan. It's time for the nation to build here at home. Our infrastructure is in critical need of repair and Americans deserve the work."

Dottie Gallagher-Cohen, President and CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, said "Public transportation services provided by the NFTA are a critical component to the Western New York economy, providing thousands of people access to job opportunities. The passage of a multi-year transportation bill is a federal advocacy priority of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership. Congress needs to work together to pass a bill to ensure providers like the NFTA can continue to provide and expand transportation options for our region."

Kimberley A. Minkel, Executive Director of the NFTA said, "The NFTA's bus and light rail systems provide safe, reliable, cost-effective transportation to thousands of Western New Yorkers every day. A long-term federal funding bill will allow the NFTA to continue to provide services that meet the needs of the community and modernize our Metro system to meet growing demand for transportation options."

Douglas Funke, President of Citizens for Regional Transit said, "Investment in public transit is needed now to stimulate economic development, provide desperately needed mobility for our citizens, and reduce pollution and the release of greenhouse gases. We encourage our representatives at the federal level to increase funding for public transportation." APTA notes that the nation faces a $160 billion backlog just to bring public transit and road systems into a state of good repair. The lack of a long-term federal funding bill creates local funding uncertainty that jeopardizes transportation project planning and discourages private sector investment. APTA also notes that a lack of a commitment on the federal level stifles local business investment and job creation. For more information about Stand Up for Transportation Day please visit http://www.standup4transportation.org/ or follow #SU4T on Twitter.

Station Will Not Be Closing April 15

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority was informed today that due to construction delays, Metro's Allen Medical Rail Station will NOT be temporarily closing Wednesday, April 15, as had been previously announced.

The closing was based on the ongoing construction, specifically the erection of steel at the site, as the University at Buffalo continues to build their new School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences facility over the existing rail station.

A new closing date will be announced as soon as one is confirmed.

Station Scheduled for Reopening May 6

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today that Metro's Allen Medical Rail Station will be temporarily closed commencing Wednesday, April 15. It is scheduled to reopen for service Wednesday, May 6.

The closing is a result of ongoing construction taking place at the rail station as the University at Buffalo continues to build their new School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences facility over the existing rail station, which will render the station inoperable during this period. All of the other rail stations will be serviced during this period.

During this time, Metro will provide free, daily shuttle service to and from the Summer Best Station for customers to access areas adjacent to the Allen Medical Campus Station. Shuttle intervals will coincide with the daily rail schedule. Passengers need to exit the train at Summer Best Station to access the shuttle service.

A map of the shuttle route and additional Metro information can be found here.

Inside Transportation Center at N. Division and Ellicott Sts.

Buffalo, NY . . . A new Metro Customer Information Center is open for business in the downtown transportation building at 181 Ellicott Street, to provide individual services to Metro bus and rail customers the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today.

The new information center will be staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in order to assist the public with:

  • Rider information on trip planning, bus routes, schedules and Metro's fare policy
  • Take photos and print Photo ID cards for Reduced Fare and Paratransit passes
  • Accept payment for Reduced Fare Identification cards
  • Review and accept (not approve) applications for Paratransit and Reduced Fare cards
  • Assist customers with the functionality of the ticket vending machines
  • Assist customers with Metro related questions and distribute information related to new Metro products and services

Kimberley A. Minkel, Executive Director of the NFTA said, "I am extremely pleased that our new information center provides Metro the opportunity to meet one-on-one with customers and address their questions in person. This helps to elevate our level of customer service and provides a nice personal touch at the same time."

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that its board of commissioners has authorized a new eight year collective bargaining agreement between the NFTA and Teamsters 264 Police Lieutenants & Captains for the period April 1, 2011 through March 31, 2019.

Under the terms of the agreement members of the bargaining unit will receive no increase in the first three years, a 2.25 percent increase in year four, a 2 percent increase in each of the remaining four fiscal years (April 1-March 31), plus a one-time $850 signing bonus. The bargaining unit represents 11 officers who are responsible for day-to-day law enforcement at all NFTA facilities.

Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director said, "I am pleased that we have been able to reached an agreement that provides both annual increases to the dedicated officers who risk their lives each day to keep our customers, employees and facilities safe, while at the same helping to ensure the financial stability of the authority moving forward."

Station Shutdown Scheduled for April 15

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation authority announced today that Metro's Allen Medical Rail Station will be temporarily closed commencing Wednesday, April 15, for approximately four weeks.

The closing is a result of ongoing construction taking place at the rail station as the University at Buffalo continues to build their new School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences facility over the existing rail station that will render the station inoperable during the four week period.

During this time, Metro will provide free, daily shuttle service to and from the Summer Best Station for customers to access areas adjacent to the Allen Medical Campus Station. Shuttle intervals will coincide with the daily rail schedule. Passengers need to exit the train at Summer Best Station to access the shuttle service.

A map of the shuttle route and additional Metro information can be found at nfta.com.

Buffalo, NY . . . The Original Lite Beer is teaming up with Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority to provide free rides for all passengers on Metro Rail service throughout the day on Sunday, March 15. This is the second year in a row that Miller Lite Free Rides® will be offered in the Buffalo area.

Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director said, "We are delighted to be partnering with Miller Lite to provide free service for all of our customers on what is traditionally one of the busiest days of the year, as many people use the train to travel downtown to enjoy the parade, the Buffalo Home Show or other events."

"Drunk driving is one hundred percent preventable," said Diane Wagner, MillerCoors responsibility commerce manager. "When people make Miller Time part of their St. Patrick's Day celebration, we hope they plan ahead for a safe ride home with Miller Lite Free Rides."

Miller Lite Free Rides® will also be provided during St. Patrick's Day celebrations in Minneapolis and Milwaukee.

Buffalo, NY . . . Garth Brooks is coming to the First Niagara Center Thursday, March 5 through Sunday, March 8 and Metro Rail is extending service to accommodate customers attending the concerts.

Metro Rail service will be extended 30 minutes after the Thursday and Sunday concerts and 90 minutes after the conclusion of the Friday and Saturday shows.

Parking is free at both the University and LaSalle Park & Rides. Rail service will transport passengers to within steps of the front door of the FNC in only 22 minutes from University Station to the Special Events Station.

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Transit Police honored Ms. Ashley Schanley Thursday, Feb. 5, for her unselfish act of kindness when she came to the aid of a woman who had fallen while using the escalator at the Allen-Medical Campus Metro Rail station.

While using the escalator Friday, Jan. 30, Ashley witnessed an elderly female (86 yrs.) lose her balance on the escalator and fall back hitting the back of her head, causing a deep laceration. The woman was unable to get up from her fall.

Ashley, 22, a Level One nursing student at Erie Community College City Campus not only offered first aid to the victim, but pulled her out of harm's way, preventing further injury. Her unselfish attitude and professional composure gave the woman comfort until medical personnel and NFTA Transit police arrived on the scene.

Kimberley A. Minkel NFTA executive director said, "Ashley gives real meaning to Buffalo the City of Good Neighbors and is the perfect definition of a Good Samaritan. She saw an opportunity to assist a woman in need of first aid and put her nursing skills to good use."

Surpasses 100,000 Enplanements for the First Time

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today that the Niagara Falls International Airport serviced a record number of passengers in 2014.

For the first time in its 87 year history, the NFIA surpassed 100,000 enplanements in one calendar year. 2014 saw the enplanement number rise to 105,273, an increase of 8.14 percent over 2013. In total, 207,597 (outbound & inbound) passengers utilized the NFIA during the year.

Kimberley A. Minkel NFTA executive director said, "These record passenger totals are very gratifying. We are optimistic and excited about the future growth potential of this airport as we embark into a new year."

The airport continues to be a big draw for Canadians, who regularly account for 88 percent of its customer total.

The airport is served by Spirit and Allegiant airlines carrying passengers to warm weather destinations via seasonal flights. In 2014, Allegiant carried 55,383 outbound passengers to Orlando/Sanford, Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg and Punta Gorda/Fort Myers, while Spirit carried 49,890 passengers to Fort Lauderdale and Myrtle Beach.

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that its board of commissioners has authorized a new eight year collective bargaining agreement between the NFTA and the Police Benevolent Association for the period April 1, 2011 through March 31, 2019.

Under the terms of the agreement members of the bargaining unit will receive no increase in the first three years, a 2.25 percent increase in year four, a 2 percent increase in each of the remaining four fiscal years, plus a one-time $750 signing bonus. The PBA represents 71 officers who are responsible for day-to-day law enforcement at all NFTA facilities.

Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director said, "I am pleased that we have reached accord on a mutually beneficial agreement that provides both annual increase to the dedicated officers who risk their lives each day to keep our customers, employees and facilities safe, while helping to ensure the financial stability of the authority moving forward."

Save 50 Percent on Admission to The Ice at Canalside

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that Canalside is now participating in their Metro Xtras discount program with a Buy One Get One Free Admission to the new open-air 33,000 square foot ice rink The Ice at Canalside, presented by BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York. The Ice, which is the largest outdoor rink in New York State, is situated almost adjacent to the Erie Canal Harbor Metro Rail station.

The discount admission offer is valid Monday through Thursday (excluding skate rental). To receive the 50 percent discount valued at $5, a valid Metro proof of fare e.g., monthly pass, day pass or rail ticket must be presented at the rink box office.

Traveling to Canalside is as easy as parking FREE at University or Lasalle Metro Rail stations and taking the 22 minute train ride downtown. All standard Metro fares apply. For more information on skate times go to canalsidebuffalo.com.

The complete list of all the discount offers available through Metro Xtras can be viewed at NFTA.com or sign up for Instant Updates.

Immediate Openings Available

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that it is seeking qualified bus operators for its MetroLink division of Metro Bus and Rail. Positions offer steady employment, good starting pay with guaranteed increases, and a clean, safe working environment, along with a comprehensive benefit package.

Interested individuals should attend an Open House, Wednesday, Jan. 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Metro's Frontier Station, 1000 Military Rd., Buffalo NY.

Candidates must be at least 21 years old with a high school diploma or GED, a New York State commercial driver's license Class B with passenger and air-brake endorsements, or a permit and ability to obtain the necessary qualifications within eight weeks of starting employment.

Applications and job descriptions can be viewed and downloaded at nfta.com.

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today that the jolly old elf himself will be visiting Amherst Sunday, Dec. 21, and he's going to use a Metro bus to see just how well everyone is behaving this holiday season.

Santa and his helpers will ride Metro Route 34 from the Boulevard Mall (the Metro bus stop in front of TGIF's restaurant) to University Station and back. Santa will be handing out trinkets and candy canes along the way. His schedule is as follows:

11:04 a.m. from the Boulevard Mall to the University Station
11:25 a.m. from University Station to Boulevard Mall
11:34 a.m. from the Boulevard Mall to the University Station
11:55 a.m. from University Station to the Boulevard Mall

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that commencing with the start of service Saturday, Nov. 22 through Sunday, Nov. 23, the above ground section of the Metro Rail system will be shutdown from Lafayette station to Erie Canal Harbor station due to work related to the replacement of overhead catenary contact wire that will require both tracks be closed in order to replace the wire safely.

During this period, Metro Rail will continue to transport customers in both directions between University and Lafayette stations.

In lieu of above ground rail service, Metro will operate circulator bus service from Lafayette station to Exchange Street for customers traveling along this section of Main Street. Shuttles will operate in each direction approximately every 15 minutes.

Directional signs will be in place at Lafayette station and bus stop passenger alert signs will be posted at all stops along Pearl Street and Washington Street noting where shuttle buses will stop.

Inbound, buses will travel between Lafayette Station and Exchange Street by way of Pearl Street. All inbound customers will be picked up or let off along Pearl Street, a block west of the inbound stations.

Outbound, circulators will operate from Exchange Street to Lafayette station by way of Washington Street. All outbound customers will be picked up or let off along Washington Street, one block east of the outbound stations.

The full length of the rail line will reopen with the start of service Monday, Nov. 24.

Buffalo, NY . . . Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Transit Officers arrested two individuals Wednesday evening at the University Metro Rail Station for attempting to sell expired Metro rail passes to Metro customers.

Undercover officers Richard Lewis and David Krzemien under the direction of Lt. Michael Garrity arrested James Smith, 51, of Buffalo and Michael A. Thompson, 31, of Buffalo after they approached several Metro customers and offered to sell them expired rail tickets and a monthly bus pass at a discount.

Both defendants were charged with trespassing and also issued a Notice of Violation for Criminal Nuisance. They were each issued an Appearance Ticket to appear in city court Nov. 19.

Full Service Will Accommodate Fans Attending the Canisius College Hockey Game at HARBORCENTER

Buffalo, NY . . . Metro Rail will be back on track utilizing both the inbound and outbound tracks the entire length of the system when service starts Friday, Oct. 31, the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today.

"I am pleased to say, and I know our customers will be glad to learn, there is now light at the end of the proverbial Metro Rail tunnel," said Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director. "It will be 10 Again, as Metro Rail returns to normal, regular service, with peak weekday morning and afternoon intervals of only 10 minutes between trains and 12 minutes off-peak during the midday," she added.

Rail service has been restricted to "single tracking" - alternating service from the inbound to outbound side since March 30, due to construction related to the city of Buffalo's project to return cars to Main Street.

Metro has simultaneously worked to replace 30-year old rail, track foundation and associated subsystems in the 500 block, with new track and pre-fabricated concrete panels to greatly enhance the Metro Rail experience. In addition, the Fountain Plaza Station has been completely rebuilt with a sleek, modern design.

It's important to note that the return to full Metro Rail service coincides with Canisius College hosting Ohio State University Friday at the HARBORCENTER for the first hockey game to be played in the new facility. The puck is scheduled to drop at 7:35 p.m.

A free Metro mobile app is available from the App store (search nfta-metro) that provides Metro schedules, service maps, Where's My Bus? real-time information, a Trip Planner and more Metro related information.

Above Ground Section to be Shutdown from Lafayette Station to Erie Canal Harbor Station

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that commencing at 9 p.m. Friday, October 24 through Sunday, Oct. 26, the above ground section of the Metro Rail system will be shutdown from Lafayette station to Erie Canal Harbor station due to work on the overhead catenary wires related to the ongoing project to return cars to Main Street. During this period, Metro Rail will continue to transport customers in both directions between University and Lafayette stations.

In lieu of the above ground rail service, Metro will operate circulator bus service from Lafayette station to Exchange Street for customers traveling along this section of Main Street. Shuttles will operate in each direction approximately every 15 minutes.

Directional signs will be in place at Lafayette station and bus stop passenger alert signs will be posted at all stops along Pearl Street and Washington Street noting where shuttle buses will stop.

Inbound, buses will travel between Lafayette Station and Exchange Street by way of Pearl Street. All inbound customers will be picked up or let off along Pearl Street, a block west of the inbound stations.

Outbound, circulators will operate from Exchange Street to Lafayette station by way of Washington Street. All outbound customers will be picked up or let off along Washington Street, one block east of the outbound stations. The full length of the rail line will reopen with the start of service Monday, Oct. 27.

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced it will host a public informational meeting Wednesday, Oct. 22, at the Riverside Institute of Technology, 51 Ontario Street, Buffalo from 6 to 8 p.m. to provide information regarding the Niagara Street Bus Priority and Corridor Design Project.

The evening will open with a brief presentation, after which attendees will have an opportunity to comment and provide feedback. The purpose of the meeting is to present recommendations for the replacement of four new bus shelters in the project area and the relocation of five existing bus shelters. The proposed bus shelter locations are based on ridership analysis and the feasibility of the intersections. The NFTA and the consultant team from Bergmann Associates and Highland Planning, will be seeking input from the public on the elements of a new neighborhood compact transit center, site amenities and the potential for site programming at the center.

"The consultant team has reviewed existing conditions along Niagara Street, including bus stop ridership and the existing bus shelter locations," said Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director. "The four new bus shelters will include amenities such as lighting, Next Bus informational signs, advertisements and wireless network analysis. We look forward to engaging the community as we collaborate to develop a "high quality transit corridor" along Niagara Street."

Moving forward, the NFTA will start to install new shelters, relocate existing shelters, finalize the neighborhood transit center design, and commission an art component for the compact transit center starting in 2015.

The Niagara Street Bus Priority and Corridor Design Project is funded by a $4.47 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration.

Metro Rail to Operate Modified Service

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that Saturday, Oct. 11, the entire above ground section of the Metro Rail system will be shutdown due to required train control modifications being made as part of the City of Buffalo's project to return cars to Main St. During this period, Metro Rail will continue to transport customers between University and Allen Medical Campus stations.

In lieu of above ground rail service, Metro will operate circulator bus service from Allen Medical Campus station to Exchange Street for customers traveling along this section of Main Street. Shuttles will operate in each direction approximately every 15 minutes.

Directional signs will be in place at Allen Medical station and bus stop passenger alert signs will be posted at all stops along Pearl Street and Washington Street noting where shuttle buses will stop.

Inbound, buses will travel between Allen Medical Campus and Exchange Street by way of Pearl Street. All inbound customers will be picked up or let off along Pearl Street, a block west of the inbound stations.

Outbound, circulators will operate from Exchange Street to Allen Medical Campus station by way of Washington Street. All outbound customers will be picked up or let off along Washington Street, one block east of the outbound stations.

The full length of the rail line will be reopening with the start of service Sunday, Oct. 12.

Immediate Openings Available

Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that Metro is currently looking to add to its workforce by hiring qualified mechanics who are seeking steady employment, good starting pay with guaranteed increases, a clean, safe environment, along with a comprehensive benefit package.

Interested individuals should attend an Open House, Saturday, Oct. 4 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Metro Cold Spring Bus Maintenance Office, 1581 Michigan Avenue, 2nd floor. A Comprehensive Skills Test will be administered promptly at noon for interested applicants.

Applications and job descriptions can be viewed and downloaded at nfta.com.