Lawmakers Race on Foot to Celebrate Busway Support on 34th Street

During Thursday evening’s rush hour, city officials and local lawmakers participated in a symbolic foot race along 34th Street, beating a downtown bus by seven minutes to demonstrate support for a proposed busway plan.

The group, including Councilman Erik Botcher, Comptroller Brad Lander, State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, and mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, walked swiftly from First to Eighth Avenue, highlighting their commitment to the initiative. Photos captured Zohran Mamdani, leading the pack, crossing the finish line amid cheers and hecklers.

Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani racing on foot against a bus — Zohran Mamdani and fellow politicians crossed the finish line ahead of the M34 bus, symbolizing support for the busway plan.

This event coincided with recent legislative approval of the busway, part of a Midtown South rezoning effort aimed at improving transit times. The plan, first proposed in May, seeks to prioritize buses by limiting private vehicle access along 34th Street, which currently sees buses traveling at less than 5.5 mph during peak hours.

City officials voiced cautious optimism about the plan’s revival after a temporary setback. Councilmember Brad Hoylman-Sigal expressed relief, saying, “This was called the Miracle on 34th Street because it was taken off the table, but now it’s back.” Mayor Eric Adams also supported the initiative, emphasizing its role in creating a more vibrant and accessible Midtown South with better infrastructure investments.

Zohran Mamdani and other politicians at a finish line holding a sign — Zohran Mamdani crosses the finish line with fellow supporters, earning a “Busway champion” medal.

In the race, about 30 volunteers and officials, including Councilman Keith Powers and DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, participated in riding the bus that was the “loser” in the race to demonstrate the benefits of the new plan. Supporters celebrated as Mamdani and others completed the sprint, symbolizing their backing for faster transit improvements.

The city aims to proceed with a full vote in the City Council next week, endorsing a plan that could significantly cut travel times for the 28,000 daily commuters along 34th Street.