MTA Reminds Customers that Mass Transit is the Best Way to Travel During the United Nations General Assembly

Subways Run Every 2-5 Minutes During Rush Hours

Buses May be Rerouted Due to Enhanced Security Measures and Road Closures

Service Information Available on the MTA Website, App and Email and Text Alerts

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) reminds New Yorkers public transit is the fastest, easiest and most convenient way to avoid gridlock while the United Nations' 80th session of the General Assembly takes place. High-level general debates open Monday, Sept. 22 and will run through Friday, Sept. 26.

Along the East Side of Manhattan, trains run every two and a half to three minutes during rush hours and every four minutes throughout the day and take 15 minutes to travel between 59 St and Wall St.

Trains on the line run every two to two and a half minutes during rush hours and every four to five and a half minutes throughout the day and take just nine minutes to travel between Times Square-42 St and Long Island City's Vernon Blvd-Jackson Ave Station.

Along 53 St, trains on the line run combined every two and a half to three minutes during rush hour and every three to four and a half minutes throughout the day and take just 18 minutes to travel between Forest Hills and Lexington Avenue. 

Trains on the ​ lines combined run every three and a half to four and a half minutes during rush hour and every four minutes throughout the day and take just eight minutes to travel between Herald Square and Canal Street.

Due to increased security and resulting traffic congestion, buses may be rerouted in the area around the United Nations. Riders should allow for additional travel time and check the MTA app for the latest service updates.

Subway and bus customers are encouraged to use the MTA's contactless fare payment system by tapping their credit or debit card, smartphone, wearable device, or OMNY card at fare arrays and aboard buses for a streamlined travel experience.

Customers can also take advantage of Long Island Rail Road service to Grand Central Madison and Metro-North Railroad service to Grand Central Terminal. On-time performance for both railroads have consistently been at or near 97% in 2025.

Ways to Stay Informed

mta.info - The definitive source for real-time arrival information and service change information for each line or route in the MTA system. Customers can find current statuses on mta.info and upcoming planned service changes using the lookup tool at mta.info/alerts.  

MTA app - Customers who use the comprehensive MTA app will see real-time train, bus and rail arrival times, and can chat with the customer care team all in one place. The app is available in the Apple Store and in Google Play.

TrainTime app - The MTA's TrainTime app is the essential companion to navigating the commuter rail system. Customers can plan their trip, purchase tickets, check train status, and chat with customer service, all in one app. The app is available in the Apple Store and in Google Play. 

Email & Text Alerts - Customers can sign up for email and SMS alerts tailored to their specific commutes and travel times. They can also sign up for MTA newsletters like The Weekender, a weekly newsletter that covers major weekend planned service changes. Customers can sign up here.  

511 - Customers who prefer to contact the MTA by telephone, information is available by dialing 511. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing can use their preferred service provider for the free 711 relay to reach the MTA at 511.