‘Great Gridlock Race’ Pits Trains Versus Cars from Harlem and Long Island to Midtown
View Photos of Race in Progress
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today ran the Great Gridlock Race, comparing travel times from Harlem and Long Island to Midtown Manhattan by train and car during the morning rush hour. The race was run on opening day of the United Nation General Assembly general debate and at the start of a week where motorcades with 193 world leaders are crisscrossing New York City.
With extensive street closures and delays expected across Manhattan, New Yorkers are strongly advised to take public transit to avoid the traffic gridlock on these upcoming days officially recognized as Gridlock Alert Days, a term coined in New York City.
Results of the Great Gridlock Race
Wantagh, LI to Midtown
The MTA sent two reps to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) Wantagh Station along the Babylon Branch: one boarded the 7:33 a.m. train from Wantagh to Grand Central, a scheduled trip of 48 minutes, and the other drove from Wantagh Station into Manhattan following Waze directions for the fastest route to Grand Central.
Results: The LIRR train arrived exactly on time, just under the scheduled 48 minutes. The hapless road warrior, however, spent most of the morning stuck in traffic, trying to reach their destination, finally arriving Grand Central after 2 hours and 36 minutes – suffering through an arduous trip 225% longer than the colleague who traveled via the LIRR.
Harlem to Midtown
The MTA dispatched one rep on the line from 125 St and Lexington Ave and another to drive along Lexington Ave departing 125 St at the same time.
Results: The lucky commuter on the line reached Grand Central in 14 minutes, while the driver lagged behind on a trip 200% longer at 42 minutes.
“If New Yorkers needed another reason to get out of their cars to avoid gridlock, the Great Gridlock Race provided it,” said Interim NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow. “Transit moves at least three times as fast, with far less hassle and in this Climate Week, is also better for the planet.”
“Benefits of taking the train have never been so apparent,” said Long Island Rail Road President Rob Free. “There’s no surprise why the majority of Long Islanders opt for the train, whether they’re going to work or for leisure travel. It’s a no-brainer, save yourself the frustration, carbon emissions and parking expense from driving, and enjoy a convenient, reliable journey into the city on the LIRR.”