Traveling to LaGuardia Airport (LGA) has long been the source of many headaches for New Yorkers–a journey often so slow it feels faster to walk. But with $160 million in funding secured and an international deadline fast approaching, that’s finally about to change.
City and State officials have announced a massive overhaul of the free Q70 LaGuardia Link, promising to turn the painfully slow trek into a world-class transit experience.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Connection
The clock is ticking. With the 2026 World Cup arriving next month, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul are racing to ensure the city is ready for a global influx of fans.
Arriving in New York City should be fast, affordable and reliable all year round — not just during major events.” – Mayor Mamdani
The centerpiece of this rush? A new eastbound center-running bus lane on Broadway, stretching from 69th Street to Roosevelt Avenue. It’s designed to bypass the notorious gridlock in Jackson Heights where buses currently crawl at just 2.7 mph during rush hour.
What the $160 Million Project Includes
This isn’t just a fresh coat of paint. The multi-agency collaboration between the Port Authority, MTA, and DOT includes:
- Priority Signals: New traffic lights on Roosevelt Ave and Broadway that stay green for Q70 buses
- BQE Express Lane: An exclusive bus lane on the northbound BQE shoulder between Northern Blvd and Astoria Blvd
- More Frequent Service: Increased bus runs during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm)
- Terminal C Shortcut: A dedicated bus-only pick-up and drop-off area at Terminal C to avoid general airport congestion
- Station Upgrades: Better lighting and “wayfinding” (signage) at the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Av and Woodside LIRR hubs
Why It Matters: Faster and Still Free
The Q70 remains the city’s only entirely fare-free bus route, serving roughly 9,000 riders daily. By implementing road-tested improvements recommended by an international panel of experts, officials hope to make the bus a viable alternative to $60+ Uber rides.
As MTA Chair Janno Lieber put it:
There’s no reason a first-class New York travel experience should be limited to the new LaGuardia Airport. These…improvements are going to make the ride to and from Queens a lot smoother and faster for tens of thousands of passengers.
The bottom line: If you’re heading to LGA for a summer getaway or a World Cup match, the Q70 is officially losing its reputation as the worst part of the trip.
Quick Guide: How to catch the Q70 Link
- From Manhattan: Take the 7, E, F, M, or R to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Av
- From Long Island: Take the LIRR to Woodside Station
- Cost: $0 (Completely free)
- Features: Specialized luggage racks and 24/7 service
