Port Authority: Free Q70 Bus Service To LaGuardia Airport Over Holiday Weekend
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- You've likely seen the video or experienced it yourself -- the traffic nightmare that took place at LaGuardia Airport.
Any way you look at it, the dangerous carmageddon at LaGuardia Airport last Friday, that had frantic passengers and crew filling sidewalks as they frantically tried to make flights -- did not please Governor Andrew Cuomo.
As CBS2 Political Reporter Marcia Kramer explained, the $4-billion redevelopment project responsible for the delays was his brain child.
The Port Authority and the Metropolitan Transit Authority have announced free Q70 bus service for commuters looking to travel over the busy President's Day holiday weekend.
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LaGuardia Link Q70 buses will be free for commuters from Thursday, Feb. 16 until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 21, the Port Authority said Wednesday.
The LaGuardia Link bus service provides transport between LaGuardia Airport terminals B,C and D and the Long Island Rail Road and MTA subway stations in Jackson Heights and Woodside.
On Wednesday, CBS2's Kramer demanded answers about the plan from Governor Cuomo. He discussed the complexities of the project -- redoing the airport while keeping it open for the 28-million passengers who use it.
"LaGuardia is the size of a large postage stamp," he said, "The parcel is very small so we're now building a new airport at the same time as using the airport."
He didn't admit to reading the riot act, but he made it clear that he didn't want a repeat performance.
"I've spoken to the Port Authority over the weekend. We have a new team to come in and manage the airport logistically better," he said.
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With 300,000 commuters expected authorities are urging commuters to consider public transportation, taxi or ride-sharing services while traveling to help avoid congestion on New York City roadways. Another alternative includes the M60 bus service that runs between LaGuardia Airport and 125th Street in Manhattan, with connections to the Metro North as well as local subway lines.
There was still no word on other traffic alleviating proposals like a park and ride at city field.
"We're thinking about all of the above," Cuomo said.
He said dedicated buses were a good idea, but offered nothing firm.
"I apologize for the congestion, that is an inevitable by-product," Port Authority Chairman John Degnan said.
If you're planning to travel this weekend, it might be a good idea to take the Port Authority's advice and allow an extra 90 minutes to get to the airport.
A Mets spokesperson refused to comment on the possibility of a park and ride at Citifield.
