NEWS RELEASE
Socks and gloves are often the most needed and requested items at homeless shelters in Western New York, yet they are among the least often donated. Those from the Matt Urban Hope Center, the NFTA, the Buffalo Zoo, and BNMC are working together to change that, and are announcing the first annual Sock and Glove drive for the Homeless. Starting on Wednesday, January 31st until February 14th, these essential items will be collected both for adults and children for local citizens in need.
All items donated will be distributed by the Matt Urban Hope Center. Collection boxes will be located at the MTC at 181 Ellicott Street, the Buffalo Zoo, the Matt Urban Center, BNMC, 1404 Main TPD Headquarters and the Buffalo Airport Rescue and Recovery Facility.
“We can’t stress how important these types of events are to the Homeless,” said Marlies Wesolowski, Executive Director of the Matt Urban Center. “I wish to thank the NFTA, and the Buffalo Zoo for this wonderful support, it will truly make a major difference in our community.”
“The NFTA is pleased to build on our partnership and support the vision of the Matt Urban Hope Center,” said Kimberley Minkel, Executive Director at the NFTA. “This project is a great example of what can be accomplished when community partners pool their resources and work together toward a common goal."
Each year, it’s estimated that between 2.5 million and 3.5 million Americans sleep in shelters, transitional housing and public places not meant for human habitation, according to the National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty.
Drop off locations:
- The Matt Urban Center-385 Paderewski Drive
- Transit Police, 1404 Main Street or MTC,181 Ellicott street
- Buffalo Zoo-Main Gate Entrance
- BNMC-Innovation Center 640 Ellicott Street
- Transit Police Headquarters 1404 Main street
- Buffalo Airport Air Rescue Firefighting Facility (Firehouse)- 120 Amherst Villa Road (Cheektowaga)
MEDIA ADVISORY
What: The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority, Matt Urban Hope Center, Buffalo Zoo, and BNMC are announcing a
special socks and glove collection for those in need. Socks are the number one item needed for those experiencing homelessness and can provide critical items that can be life-saving.
Who: Leaders from Matt Urban Hope Center, NFTA, Buffalo Zoo, BNMC
Why: Most of us take new socks and gloves for granted, but we know these items bring great comfort to and make a
dramatic difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. Each year, it’s estimated that between 2.5 million
and 3.5 million Americans sleep in shelters, transitional housing and public places not meant for human habitation, according to the National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty. Additionally, a reported 7.4 million people have lost
their homes and are living with family or friends due to economic necessity. And 1 million people who are experiencing homelessness have full-time jobs.
When: Wednesday, January 31, 2018, 10:00 a.m.
Where: NFTA headquarters, exterior lot at downtown bus terminal (off Ellicott Street)
181 Ellicott Street, Buffalo
News Release
Buffalo, New York (January 9, 2018) — OneJet, the air transportation network that provides consumers increased access to nonstop travel in small and medium markets, announced that customers can start purchasing tickets for flights between Buffalo and Albany today.
Fares are starting at $129 each way, with flights beginning on Feb. 13. OneJet will offer twice-daily round-trip flights between the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and Albany International Airport.
- BUF to ALB: departing 7:00 a.m. ET; arriving 7:55 a.m. ET
- ALB to BUF: departing 8:20 a.m. ET; arriving 9:20 a.m. ET
- BUF to ALB: departing 4:50 p.m. ET; arriving 5:45 p.m. ET
- ALB to BUF: departing 6:10 p.m. ET; arriving 7:10 p.m. ET
With the launch of the Buffalo/Albany route, OneJet will introduce its new OneJet Plus service, offering expanded service onboard the larger ERJ135 aircraft. This service will provide travelers with enhanced amenities, including expanded legroom at each seat; complimentary 4G high-speed Wi-Fi; streaming entertainment gate to gate; and complimentary beer, wine and snacks en route. Travelers will also receive the same check-in conveniences that standard OneJet flights provide, including TSA PreCheck access for eligible travelers and valet planeside baggage service.
The OneJet Plus–branded ERJ135 aircraft will offer a comfortable 30-seat cabin for the one-hour gate-to-gate service, with convenient morning and afternoon flights Monday through Friday.
OneJet opened its first base in Pittsburgh in May 2016 with two daily flights. The company now offers over 220 weekly flights to and from its operating bases in Pittsburgh and Milwaukee, with weekday flights to Albany, Buffalo, Cincinnati, Columbus, Hartford, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Louisville, Nashville, Omaha, Palm Beach, Providence and Richmond. OneJet provides exclusive nonstop service to and from these markets, offering fast and convenient links for business travelers.
For additional information, visit www.onejet.com. For customer inquiries or travel assistance, call 1-844-ONEJET1 (1-844-663-5381).
About OneJet
OneJet is an air transportation network that provides consumers increased access to nonstop travel in small to midsize markets, at relatively low cost. Services operate from the main commercial terminals and airports in markets served and feature TSA PreCheck access, expedited boarding and complimentary onboard amenities, including high-speed internet access. All flights are operated by regionally based operating partners featuring ARGUS Platinum safety-rated and TSA-certified operations. The company incorporates former senior leadership from the major U.S. airlines, the U.S. Department of Transportation, leading U.S. aircraft manufacturers and the TSA.
Buffalo, NY... Research from the Accessibility Observatory at the University of Minnesota recently ranked the top metropolitan areas in the county for connecting workers with jobs by transit. The annual rankings are determined by a weighted average of accessibility, giving a higher weight to closer, easier-to-access jobs..
"This project provides the most detailed evaluation to date of access to jobs by transit," says Andrew Owen, director of the Observatory. "We directly compare the transit accessibility performance of America's largest metropolitan areas. Buffalo's rank rose from 29th to 22nd, which indicates a commitment to improving job accessibility."
Jobs reachable within 10 minutes are weighted most heavily; jobs were given decreasing weight as travel time increases up to 60 minutes. Travel times were calculated using detailed pedestrian networks and full transit schedules for the 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. period. The calculations include all components of a transit journey, including 'last mile' access and egress walking segments and transfers, and account for minute-by-minute variations in service frequency.
"The results of this independent study are a testament to the hard-working employees here at NFTA/Metro who work diligently to get Western New Yorkers to their jobs every day. " Said Kim Minkel, NFTA Executive Director.
Buffalo ranked higher than larger cities like Atlanta, Detroit, and Cleveland. The top city was New York, followed by San Francisco, and Chicago.
"We are proud of our efforts to improve and link our riders to where they need to go, " said Tom George, NFTA/Metro's Director of Public Transit. "I am thrilled to see our ranking of 22nd, for a city of our size, demonstrate these vast improvements within our system. "
The Accessibility Observatory at the University of Minnesota is the nation's leading resource for the research and application of accessibility-based transportation system evaluation. The Observatory is a program of the Center for Transportation Studies and the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo-Engineering. CTS is nationally renowned for developing, fostering, and spreading innovation in transportation.
ABOUT THE NFTA
The NFTA is a regional multi-modal transportation authority responsible for airport and surface transportation in Erie and Niagara counties. NFTA/NFTM businesses include a bus, rail and paratransit system, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport. In 2016, a J.D. Power study ranked the Buffalo Niagara International Airport second highest in customer satisfaction for medium sized airports in North America.
BUFFALO, NY... The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is stepping up to assist those affected by Hurricane Maria with a special Stuff the Bus campaign to help collect essential items. This is part of the state wide, “Empire State Relief and Recovery Effort for Puerto Rico†effort organized by Governor Andrew Cuomo. NFTA Metro’s hurricane relief collection bus will be located in the parking lot near Tops Market at 425 Niagara Street in Buffalo from October 3-6 during the hours of 5-7:30 p.m. We will be collecting the following items: batteries, flashlights, portable lanterns, diapers, baby wipes, bottled water, and hygiene products.
In addition, the NFTA will also be hosting an internal drive among its employees.
All donations will be provided to Western New York’s designated depot, the Connecticut Street Armory, during the week of October 9.
If you are interested in more information or a list of charitable organizations for financial contributions, please go to ny.gov/PuertoRico.
ABOUT THE NFTA
The NFTA is a regional multi-modal transportation authority responsible for airport and surface transportation in Erie and Niagara counties. NFTA/NFTM businesses include a bus, rail and paratransit system, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport. In 2016, a J.D. Power study ranked the Buffalo Niagara International Airport second highest in customer satisfaction for medium sized airports in North America.
BUFFALO, N.Y., -The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is going pink during the month of October to show support for breast cancer awareness month.
The NFTA is doing its part to help bring attention to this important cause in various ways, all starting on Sunday, October 1st.
The Fountain Plaza Metro Rail stations, (Main Street between Huron and Chippewa) will be lit with pink LED lighting.
The water in the two fountains outside the Buffalo Niagara International Airport (Genesee Street) will be turned pink using an LED light system.
Transit Police Officers will exchange their regular badges and don pink versions.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, except for skin cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. It is also the second leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer. The NFTA wants to help awareness and the importance of taking the necessary steps to have a plan to detect the disease in its early stages and encourage others to do the same.
ABOUT THE NFTA
The NFTA is a regional multi-modal transportation authority responsible for airport and surface transportation in Erie and Niagara counties. NFTA/NFTM businesses include a bus, rail and paratransit system, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport. In 2016, a J.D. Power study ranked the Buffalo Niagara International Airport second highest in customer satisfaction for medium sized airports in North America.
BUFFALO, NY...
St. Mary's School for the Deaf had a summer fundraising project entitled "Kids for K-9". The entire SMSD community, but most importantly our students, brought in all their loose change. The students then helped separate, count and roll the money. It was not only a wonderful learning experience for the students, but also an opportunity for them to experience the great satisfaction in "giving back" to a very worthy cause. SMSD far exceeded their original goal and raised over $2,400 this summer. Next Monday, September 25, SMSD students are excited to present the NFTA Officers their special dogs this donation to purchase two protective dog vests and K-9 medical equipment. All are welcome to attend this brief event.
***
Monday, September 25, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. St. Mary's School for the Deaf Young Assembly Hall 2253 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214
BUFFALO, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority/Metro is hosting an open house on Saturday, September 23. The event begins at 9am at the Cold Spring Garage at 1581 Michigan Avenue in the city of Buffalo.
"We are thrilled to be able to offer new wages of up to $26.58 an hour, coupled with our already extensive benefits package, make it a great time to work for the NFTA," said Director of Human Resources Karen Novo.
The Open House provides job seekers with a great opportunity. "We look forward to opening our doors and allowing candidates to get a real feel of what it's like working for the NFTA/Metro." Dave Rugg, Manager of Bus Maintenance.
Employment opportunities range from mechanics to electronic specialists working at one of our three bus garages, or in one of our specialty shops. Those who are interested will be given a tour of the facility, as well as the opportunity to take the NFTA's Skills Test. This test determines a person's mechanical aptitude and expertise. Candidates are encouraged to complete an application that is available at jobs.nfta.com.
BUFFALO, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced the official opening of its new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Facility at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. NFTA officials will be joined by Congressman Brian Higgins and New York Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul to mark the occasion with the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
"Today marks another milestone in the emergence of the Buffalo Niagara International Airport as a major aviation hub and driver of economic growth in Western New York," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, who took part in this morning's ribbon cutting. "This outstanding new facility aids first responders in their task of protecting passengers and the public, and it positions the airport for future expansion and success."
Congressman Brian Higgins said, "The airport is an active facility that serves a growing passenger base from Western New York, Southern Ontario and all who visit the region. This new aircraft rescue and firefighting facility provides first responders with state-of-the-art resources and training capabilities to best serve the needs of the airport today."
Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA executive director said, "This is an exciting day for us, the opening of the new ARFF facility will improve safety for the flying public and support the ongoing growth and expansion at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. I want to extend my sincere thanks to Governor Andrew Cuomo, Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, Congressman Brian Higgins as well as our local elected officials and business and community partners for their continued and valuable support."
The new 24,000 square foot facility will better prepare the airport’s 40 fire fighters/emergency response personnel to deal with fire protection/prevention, hazardous material response and control, airport communications, employee safety training, and all emergency medical responses. The facility includes a new training area for emergency responders, additional vehicle storage bays to enhance maintenance and care of trucks, and is located closer to the terminal and runways to improve emergency response times, reduce ARFF vehicle runway crossings. The cost of the new facility is approximately 12 million dollars with most of the funding coming from a passenger facility charge, the NFTA, FAA entitlement funds, and a New York State FAA matching fund.
The new facility will provide added passenger safety and will replace a 45-year-old facility. In the past two years, the Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting team responded to 1,082 emergency calls, 65 of those were aircraft emergences.
BUFFALO, NY...
The Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council (GBNRTC) is encouraging community members to attend a workshop to refine station area plans for the transit-oriented development along the existing Metro Rail line in the City of Buffalo as well as the proposed Metro rail extension to the northtowns.
The workshop, which is the second of three, will be held on June 28, 2017 from 6-8 p.m. at Hayes Hall, Room 403, on the University at Buffalo South Campus and will address policies and procedures for improved community connections for existing and proposed Metro Rail stations.
Transit-oriented development is expected to generate $1.7 billion along the Metro rail corridor.
To get to Hayes Hall, take Metro Bus or Rail to University Station or park in one of the campus lots and enter through the front entrance and continue upstairs to the 4th floor.
ABOUT THE NFTA
The NFTA is a regional multi-modal transportation authority responsible for airport and surface transportation in Erie and Niagara counties. NFTA/NFTM businesses include a bus, rail and paratransit system, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport. In 2016, a J.D. Power study ranked the Buffalo Niagara International Airport second highest in customer satisfaction for medium sized airports in North America.
BUFFALO, NY...
The NFTA is pleased to announce it has reached an agreement with Uber to provide transportation ride services for patrons at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BNIA) and the Niagara Falls International Airport (NFIA). Under the agreement, Uber will pay a flat fee to the NFTA of $180,000 for a one-year pilot program. This will allow Uber to both "Drop off" and "Pick up" at the airports within an established geo-fence boundary and will make logistics easy for both passengers and drivers. The agreement allows TNC drivers permitted by the State of New York to pick-up patrons at both airports without any additional licensing of drivers required. This initial agreement is a pilot program that will end on June 29, 2018.
"Thank you to the NFTA for coming to the table and reaching an agreement that best serves the people of Buffalo," says Sarfraz Maredia, General Manager for Uber NY. "We look forward to providing affordable, reliable transportation to Buffalo visitors and residents alike starting June 29th as they arrive into and depart from Buffalo's airports."
"The NFTA wants to do everything it can to provide our customers with additional ground transportation choices," says Kimberley Minkel, Executive Director of the NFTA. "We are proud that we were able to reach an agreement that serves our customers and is the best solution for our community."
Under the agreement, Uber will operate a geo-fence system that will help manage traffic and minimize air emissions for the almost 5 million customers who use NFTA-managed airports. The airport was recently ranked number 2 in overall customer satisfaction for all North American airports by J.D. Power, in part because it is easy to get in and out quickly.
ABOUT THE NFTA
The NFTA is a regional multi-modal transportation authority responsible for airport and surface transportation in Erie and Niagara counties. NFTA/NFTM businesses include a bus, rail and paratransit system, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport. In 2016, a J.D. Power study ranked the Buffalo Niagara International Airport second highest in customer satisfaction for medium sized airports in North America.
Buffalo, NY...
The NFTA and Lyft are pleased to announce they have worked out a deal to provide ride sharing services for patrons at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BNIA) and the Niagara Falls International Airport (NFIA). Under the agreement, Lyft will be charged $3.00 for both "Drop off" and "Pick up" for each transaction initiated or concluded within the geo-fence boundaries.
"We are thrilled to be able to begin operations to BNIA and NFIA upon Lyft's launch in New York State," said. Kirk Safford, Senior Manager of Airports & Venues at Lyft. "Thanks to this agreement, Buffalo's visitors will be able to arrive at their destinations more easily than ever, while helping to support the Buffalo economy and improving safety on the road."
The agreement is for an initial "pilot program" and is limited to a one-year period starting on June 29, 2017.
"The NFTA wants to do everything it can to provide our customers with additional ground transportation choices," says Kimberley Minkel, Executive Director, NFTA. "We are proud that we were able to work out a solution that is the best for our community."
This fee will allow us to operate a geo-fence system that will prevent TNCs from unnecessarily circulating around the airport so we can minimize air emissions, heavy traffic, and congestion for the almost 5 million customers who use our airports from the U.S. and Canada. It's important to note this fee allows us to cover some of the costs associated with this new service and continue to offer a high level of service. The airport was recently ranked number 2 in overall customer satisfaction for all North American airports by J.D. Power, in part because it is easy to get in and out quickly.
The service will be available on July 29, the same time that Lyft rolls out statewide. It is part of a one-year pilot program which will be continuously monitored and evaluated.
ABOUT THE NFTA
The NFTA is a regional multi-modal transportation authority responsible for airport and surface transportation in Erie and Niagara counties. NFTA/NFTM businesses include a bus, rail and paratransit system, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport. In 2016, a J.D. Power study ranked the Buffalo Niagara International Airport second highest in customer satisfaction for medium sized airports in North America.
NIAGARA FALLS, NY...
Mayor Paul A. Dyster and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced the seasonal debut launch of Metro's vintage trolley service to guests staying at participating Niagara Falls hotels and motels beginning Friday, May 19. Metro's Niagara Falls Trolley buses will serve Niagara Falls Boulevard, Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls International Airport and downtown Niagara Falls, USA.
Niagara Falls Trolley stop signs along the route indicate where riders can board a Metro trolley. In downtown Niagara Falls, trolley stops are located at The Aquarium of Niagara Falls, the Seneca Niagara Casino, and Tony Roma's Restaurant. Service will also be provided to hotels and shops along Third Street, Rainbow Blvd. and Buffalo Avenue. In addition, stops are located along Pine Avenue, at the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls, several motels along Niagara Falls Boulevard and Little Italy.
Patrons receive their free 2017 trolley day passes upon request at participating hotels and motels. The trolley pass, supported by the local Niagara Falls bed tax, allows pass holders free access to the trolley service and the entire Metro Bus and Rail system in Niagara and Erie counties. Passes must be validated in Niagara County and may be used anytime on the date the pass is punched by the Metro operator.
Mayor Dyster said, "Thanks to unprecedented investment not seen in the City of Niagara Falls in many years, the number of recreational and tourist-friendly activities throughout our city continues to increase. With record numbers of visitors coming to our community each year, transportation services such as the Niagara Falls Trolley are a vital component to supporting our business community and enhancing the visitor experience allowing to experience all we have to offer at no cost."
"The Trolley provides the public a unique and memorable travel experience," said Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director. "We are thrilled to be able to provide this service and help support our business community."
John Percy, President & CEO of Destination Niagara USA said, "We work incredibly hard to inspire visits to Niagara Falls and Niagara County to people all around the country and from around the world. An important part of that story is helping people plan for the logistics of their visit which includes transportation. The Free Metro Trolley service plays an extremely important role with assisting our visitors in more easily accessing all of the exciting attractions that we have to offer."
Frank Strangio, Niagara Falls Hotel Association President said, "The citywide free trolley service for hotel guests makes the great destination of Niagara Falls, USA much more tourist friendly allowing a better experience for our millions of visitors each year. I am honored to be part of the creation of this service as well as its continued growth. This could not be accomplished without the help of the fantastic tourism professionals in our local hotels and industry, the phenomenal service given by everyone at the NFTA and the great leaders we have in the City of Niagara Falls."
Those without a trolley day pass can ride the trolley by paying Metro's regular adult fare of $2, $1 for children (5-11 yrs.), seniors (65 yrs. and over), disabled and Medicare clients with valid I.D. All other Metro passes are also valid. Children four and younger ride free, limit three children per fare paying adult.
Service will operate:
- May 19 - 21 (weekends)
- May 26 - Oct. 8 (daily)
- Oct.13 - 29 (weekends)
The service, which is designated as the "Red Line," will operate from 9 a.m. until midnight and on all holidays. All Metro route maps, service updates and schedules can be found online at nfta.com/metro, #NFTrolley, including trolley maps and schedules.
ABOUT THE NFTA
The NFTA is a regional multi-modal transportation authority responsible for airport and surface transportation in Erie and Niagara counties. NFTA/NFTM businesses include a bus, rail and paratransit system, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport. In 2016, a J.D. Power study ranked the Buffalo Niagara International Airport second highest in customer satisfaction for medium sized airports in North America.
Buffalo, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today that it surpassed its disadvantaged business partnership goals for 2016, earning the nation's top ranking from the Federal Transit Administration.
"Contracting with women and minority owned business has always been a priority for the Authority," Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA executive director said. "In supporting Governor Andrew Cuomo vision, we've worked hard to grow these relationships and it's paying off for everyone in the community, because a diverse local economy is a strong local economy."
For 2016, the NFTA aimed at awarding 17 percent of its contracts to disadvantaged businesses, stretching beyond the national average of 16 percent. It reached 17.14 percent, exceeding 100 percent of the goal. The NFTA was the only top 50 transit system in the United States to reach its goal.
Transportation authorities around the country set annual goals for contracting with businesses owned by minorities or women. The strategy is to foster the development of organizations that may have been disadvantaged in the past. The FTA tracks these targets and reports on them yearly. The most recent report can be found at the FTA's site, www.transit.dot.gov, under Top 50 Goal Attainment.
ABOUT THE NFTA
The NFTA is a regional multi-modal transportation authority responsible for airport and surface transportation in Erie and Niagara counties. NFTA/NFTM businesses include a bus, rail and paratransit system, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and the Niagara Falls International Airport. In 2016, a J.D. Power study ranked the Buffalo Niagara International Airport second highest in customer satisfaction for medium sized airports in North America.
Buffalo, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that the Buffalo Niagara International Airport has received a remarkable 10th Balchen/Post award for excellence at the 51st Annual International Aviation Snow Symposium.
The Northeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives recognized the BNIA's snow removal team today for outstanding performance this past winter with a Balchen/Post Award. The Buffalo Airport's crew kept runways operational day and night, despite snow, ice and bitter cold. The airport was last honored in 2015, and this is the 10th time it has been honored in the 41-year history of the award. Buffalo won in the medium-size airport classification.
Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA executive director, said, "The men and women in our airfield crews respond at any hour, in the worst of weather conditions. They do their jobs so well most people never know they did their jobs at all, which makes this recognition very special."
Nominations for the Balchen/Post awards come from a variety of aviation professions, including airline executives, pilots, and ground transportation operators. The nominations are sorted by an independent selection committee. Categories are set by airport size, as determined by the number of flights in and out of the airport per year. The committee then bestows awards based 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 Allen Medical Campus Metro Rail Station will be closing nightly from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. starting Sunday, April 2 through Thursday, April 13, the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today.
The closing is necessitated so that work can be completed on the installation of glass partitions between the handrails and the steps inside the station that is part of an overall $4.4 million restoration project at the rail station.
Rail customers are encouraged to take an 8 Main Metro bus or to use the Summer Best Station during this period.
Buffalo, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announce that Metro Bus is currently looking for qualified applicants seeking steady employment, good starting pay, guaranteed increases, a comprehensive benefit package and a clean, safe work environment.
Interested individuals may download an application at nfta.com or stop in during a special Open House, Saturday, March 25, from 9 a.m. to noon, at Metro's Cold Spring Bus Maintenance Office, 2nd floor at 1581 Michigan Avenue.
Comprehensive Skills Tests will be administered promptly at noon for interested applicants.
Buffalo, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today that for the third consecutive year the Niagara Falls International Airport has set an enplanement record for outbound passengers for a one-year period.
For just the third time in its 89-year history, the outbound passenger count surpassed 100,000 enplanements in one calendar year. 2016 saw the number rise to 122,652, from 118,154, an increase of 3.8 percent over 2015, which was a record year. In total, 241,374 (outbound & inbound) passengers utilized the NFIA during 2016.
Kimberley A. Minkel NFTA Executive Director said, "We continue to be pleased with the year-over-year growth at the Niagara Falls International Airport. To have record passenger totals for a third year in a row, especially in the face of a depressed Canadian dollar, speaks to the continued potential of the airport going forward."
In spite of the devalued Canadian dollar, the airport continues to be popular with Canadians, who accounted for approximately 78 percent of the passenger count in 2016.
The airport is served by Spirit and Allegiant airlines carrying passengers to warm weather destinations via seasonal flights. In 2016, Allegiant carried 68,341 outbound passengers to Orlando/Sanford, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg and Punta Gorda/Fort Myers, while Spirit carried 54,311 passengers to Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and Myrtle Beach.
Flight and airline information can be found online at nigarafallsairport.com.
NEWS RELEASE
Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that Metro officials will conduct a “public conversation” regarding bus service in the City of Lackawanna Thursday, Jan. 19, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Willie Cotton Center, 52 Gates Ave, Lackawanna, NY.
The purpose of the meeting is to have a general community conversation about on-going transit initiatives and the transportation needs with local residents.
The meeting is accessible by using Route 36.
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that Metro officials will conduct a "public conversation" regarding bus service in the city of Lackawanna Thursday, Jan. 19, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Willie Cotton Center, 52 Gates Ave, Lackawanna, NY.
The purpose of the meeting is to have a general community conversation about on-going transit initiatives and the transportation needs with local residents.
The meeting is accessible by using Route 36.
NEWS RELEASE
Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that Metro Rail will extend service Saturday, Dec. 31, to accommodate passengers attending the Annual New Year's Eve Ball Drop at Roosevelt Square, activities at Canalside and the First Night Buffalo celebration and additional Metro bus service will be added to six routes.
Train service will run continuously, making stops at all stations during the extended service period at 20 minute intervals. One exception to the schedule will be the 11:50 p.m. trip on New Year’s Eve from University Station will be moved up to 11:40 p.m., to transport people downtown in advance of the ball drop.
The last outbound train is scheduled to leave Erie Canal Harbor Station at 2 a.m., New Year's Day following the events, with the last inbound train leaving University Station at 2:30 a.m.
Additional one trip Metro bus service will operate from the starting point of the route, leaving at 12:40 a.m. for the #4 Broadway (Carolina & Busti), #5 Niagara-Kenmore (MTC), #12 Utica (Utica Rail Station - Outbound), #14 Abbott (Mohawk & Washington), #20 Elmwood (MTC) and #24 Genesee (Amtrak Station.)
Due to safety concerns resulting for congestion around Roosevelt Square, inbound train service will be suspended after the 11:40 p.m. departure until 12:35 a.m. Outbound service will be suspended from 11:20 p.m. until 12:20 a.m.
All Metro bus and rail schedules are available at metro.nfta.com.
Buffalo, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that Metro Rail will extend service Saturday, Dec. 31, to accommodate passengers attending the Annual New Year's Eve Ball Drop at Roosevelt Square, activities at Canalside and the First Night Buffalo celebration and additional Metro bus service will be added to six routes.
Train service will run continuously, making stops at all stations during the extended service period at 20 minute intervals. One exception to the schedule will be the 11:50 p.m. trip on New Year's Eve from University Station will be moved up to 11:40 p.m., to transport people downtown in advance of the ball drop.
The last outbound train is scheduled to leave Erie Canal Harbor Station at 2 a.m., New Year's Day following the events, with the last inbound train leaving University Station at 2:30 a.m.
Additional one trip Metro bus service will operate from the starting point of the route, leaving at 12:40 a.m. for the #4 Broadway (Carolina & Busti), #5 Niagara-Kenmore (MTC), #12 Utica (Utica Rail Station - Outbound), #14 Abbott (Mohawk & Washington), #20 Elmwood (MTC) and #24 Genesee (Amtrak Station.)
Due to safety concerns resulting for congestion around Roosevelt Square, inbound train service will be suspended after the 11:40 p.m. departure until 12:35 a.m. Outbound service will be suspended from 11:20 p.m. until 12:20 a.m.
All Metro bus and rail schedules are available at nfta.com/metro.
NEWS RELEASE
Buffalo, NY. . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that the sounds of holiday music will be returning to the downtown bus terminal (181 Ellicott St.) for the ninth consecutive year from Dec. 7- 22, compliments of musical ensembles from 14 local schools.
Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director said, “It is really wonderful to have students from our area schools performing festive music and bringing cheer to individuals traveling through our bus terminal over the holidays.”
The following schools will be participating as indicated:
Lorraine Elementary 12/7, 11 a.m.
Hutchinson Central Technical High School 12/8, 11 a.m.
Fredrick Law Olmsted 12/9, 11 a.m.
Buff. Academy of Visual and Performing Arts 12/14, 10 a.m.
Mt. Mercy Academy Magic Belles 12/14, 11 a.m.
South Park High School 12/15, 11 a.m.
Akron High School Marching Santa Band 12/16, 8:30 a.m. (15 min.)
Southside Elementary 12/16, 11 a.m.
Middle Early College High School 12/16, 11:30 a.m.
Visit from Metro Santa 12/16, TBD
McKinley Vocational High School 12/16, 12 p.m.
Dr. Lydia T. White School of Excellence 12/16, 12:30 p.m.
Dr. Lydia T. White School of Excellence 12/20, 11 a.m.
Harriet Ross Tubman 12/20, 12 p.m.
Cardinal O’Hara High School 12/22, TBD
Each performance will feature between 15 and 60 students, who will entertain for 30 to 45 minutes. Performances may be subject to change. All are welcome to attend.
The Buffalo Niagara International Airport is now equipped with two Videophone units to serve hearing impaired and speech-disabled travelers. One unit is located on the arrival level (lower level) at the east end and the other is located on the departure level (upper level) post security, in the observation area just past the security checkpoint. The service, which employs televisions and high-speed Internet connections, is free and will be available at all times.
A videophone is a device that hearing impaired or speech-disabled people can use to communicate visually with another hearing impaired person or with a hearing person via an interpreter-assisted Video Relay Service. The benefits to having a Videophone in place are that hearing impaired persons have equal access to phone services, without having to depend on someone for assistance.
Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director said, "The Videophones replace older TTY/Relay phone units with new, modern technology that enhances the communication experience and creates an improved level of independence for our hearing impaired customers."
The project was a joint effort between the airport; the NFTA's Advisory Committee on the Disabled and the Buffalo Civic Association of the Deaf.
NEWS RELEASE
Buffalo, NY . . . The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today that a construction project to replace the pavement at the west entrance and exit lanes to the Buffalo Niagara International Airport is scheduled to commence Monday, Oct. 17.
As a result, the west entrance/exit to the airport opposite the entrance to the Kensington Expressway (Route 33), will be closed nightly starting Monday, Oct. 17 through Friday, Oct. 21, and again Monday, Oct. 24 to Tuesday, Oct. 25, from 6 p.m. to 4 a.m.
Also, single lane closures on Genesee Street and at the entrance or exit lanes will occur intermittently during the day between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. The construction schedule is subject to change depending on weather conditions.
The work includes full depth asphalt pavement replacement, as well as milling a portion of the pavement and replacement with an asphalt overlay to restore the airport’s west entrance and exit lanes. Reconstruction of the sidewalk and handicap access ramps on either side of the entrance/exit is also included, as well as replacement of the traffic control detection loops in the pavement.
Variable message boards will be in place to alert people to use the east entrance during closure.
Buffalo, NY...
Metro Bus is looking for individuals seeking steady employment, along with a competitive wage and extensive benefits announced the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority. Metro is experiencing a large number of retirements, creating immediate openings for bus operators.
"If individuals are looking for a job that provides stability and longevity, with comprehensive benefits, which includes paid training, then we have a position for them right now," said, Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director.
OPEN HOUSE
Metro representatives will be present Tuesday, August 30, at Metro's Frontier Station, 1000 Military Rd. Kenmore, NY from 4 to 7 p.m. to inform applicants about the comprehensive benefits package and job requirements.
Operator Requirements: Individuals must be 19 yrs. of age, possess a high school diploma or G.E.D., have a clean driver's license and a minimum of a CDL B license or permit with passenger and airbrake endorsements. Full employment details can be found online at nfta.com. Metro provides paid CDL training along with paying associated CDL fees.
Buffalo, NY...
The hearings will focus on modifications to the current fare structure that will let Metro take advantage of new technology and modernize the fare system.
- Wednesday, Aug. 31 Niagara Falls City Hall in Council Chambers 745 Main Street, Niagara Falls, NY
- 5 p.m. One-on-one discussions
- 6 p.m. Presentation & comment session
- Thursday, Sept. 1 Buffalo & Erie County Library Auditorium
- 1 Lafayette Square, Buffalo, NY
- 5 p.m. One-on-one discussions
- 6 p.m. Presentation & comment session
Metro will also consider comments or emails received no later than Sept. 9, 2016 will also be considered. Mail to NFTA, 181 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, NY 14203, Attn: Service Planning Department or email to planning@nfta.com.
Buffalo, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that beginning Monday, Aug. 22 and until the morning of Saturday Aug. 26, Mero Rail's Allen Medical Campus Station will close from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. The station will be open during the day. Closings are related to the construction of a new rail station and the University of Buffalo's on-going medical campus project on the same site.
Buffalo, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced today that Metro Bus and Rail has been cited as the ninth most effective public transit system among mid-cities in the U.S. for transportation viability according to a recently released study.
The study done by Walk Score, a Redfin company, created the Transit Score to rate locations and cities by the effectiveness their public transportation provides their community. Redfin, an online real estate agency that buys and sells homes nationwide; released rankings for cities with populations between 100,000 and 300,000 to rate the "usefulness of their public transportation options."
Metro received a Transit Score of 50.4, which designates Buffalo as having 'good transit,' with many nearby public transportation options. Cambridge, MA was ranked first with a score of 72.3. The complete listing can be found here.
Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director commented, "This study validates the dedication that each and every Metro employee puts forth every day on behalf of their customers. To be ranked ninth among all mid-size cities within the U.S. is very gratifying. We will not rest on our laurels and will continue working to improve our current position going forward."
"Although most Buffalonians don't see themselves as living in a community that's known for its public transportation, this ranking recognizes some important progress that's been made toward making it easier and more convenient to live in and get around Buffalo," said Lesley Lannan, Redfin a real estate agent in Buffalo. "With the year-round popularity of Canalside along the waterfront, always-popular sporting and music events at the Arena and the growing number of restaurants and entertainment venues downtown, more folks from the northern suburbs and other parts of the city are relying on the convenience of Metro Rail and avoiding traffic congestion and parking hassles."
On average, Metro Bus provides service for 1.8 million people each month, while Metro Rail provides rides for 370,000 people each month. In 2015, Metro Bus and Rail provided service for 26.5 million customers.
Buffalo, NY...
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced that US Customs and Border Protection will be holding a NEXUS Pass Sign Up event at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport this August. Participants must be pre-registered online before July 24.
The NEXUS program allows travelers to proceed with little or no delay into Canada, and back to the US, through dedicated lanes. It makes border crossing much quicker and easier. NEXUS includes Global Entry, which is located at most major airports, TSA Pre-Check, and expedited processing for boaters. NEXUS members may cross the border on the Whirlpool Bridge in Niagara Falls, which is now NEXUS exclusive. NEXUS application fees are $50 for adults, children under the age of 18 are free. Once received, the cards are valid for five years at which time participants must renew their membership.
The Buffalo Airport NEXUS event will be held Tuesday, August 16 and Wednesday, August 17, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, visit buffaloairport.com.