If you regularly drive in Manhattan—especially near the M2 or M4 bus routes—you’ll want to pay attention starting Friday, July 18.
The MTA is expanding its Automated Camera Enforcement (ACE) program to these two major uptown/downtown routes, meaning improperly using the bus lane, blocking a stop or double parking could hit you with a fine starting at $50. And if you’re a repeat offender? That fine could climb up to $250.
This isn’t a pilot. ACE has been running on 37 other bus routes already, and the results are hard to ignore: 5% faster bus speeds overall (with some spots seeing up to 30%), 20% fewer collisions, Less pollution (MTA estimates a 5–10% drop in emissions) and a 40% drop in blocked bus stops.
Over 1,200 buses now have these mounted cameras scanning 510 miles of NYC streets—and they’re not slowing down. With more than 775,000 daily riders across the system, this tech is proving to be a big win for public transit in the city.
How MTA’s ACE Cameras Work
Each ACE-equipped bus uses cameras to capture video and license plate data when a car is blocking a bus lane, stop or is double-parked along the route. That info is then securely sent to NYC DOT, where real humans (not bots) review and process the violation.
You’ll know you’re in an ACE zone —there’s clear signage up in all enforced areas. So no surprises.
Why It Matters
Beyond just enforcing traffic rules, ACE has made it easier for buses to actually stick to their schedules. It also helps riders with disabilities by ensuring stops are clear for safe boarding.
The program’s one-year anniversary this July marks a major milestone. In just 12 months, ACE grew from a handful of routes to a citywide initiative touching all five boroughs. And the data shows it’s working.
According to MTA stats, 91% of drivers don’t violate more than twice. So once the fine hits, most people seem to get the message.
What’s Next?
With M2 and M4 joining the list, ACE now covers 39 routes and more are expected to be added in the near future. The MTA, NYC DOT and Department of Finance are all involved in keeping this program expanding, evolving and as fair as possible.
You can read the official MTA Press release here.
For more local updates like this, stay tuned to Nova Cadeau. We cover the real stories that matter to New Yorkers—one street at a time.
