The Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan is the world's busiest bus terminal, serving over 225,000 passengers daily and 65 million annually. It operates 223 departure gates and connects to both commuter and long-distance buses, particularly serving New Jersey commuters.
Opened, Dec 15, 1950
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Before the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) was built, multiple bus terminals were scattered throughout Midtown Manhattan, including the All American Bus Depot, the Consolidated Bus Terminal, and others located within hotels. The Dixie Bus Center operated out of the Dixie Hotel from 1930 to 1959. Notably, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad had a terminal with a revolving platform in the Chanin Building. With the opening of the Lincoln Tunnel in 1937 and growing bus traffic, the need for a consolidated terminal became evident, leading to the eventual creation of PABT in 1950.
Addition, 1979
Expanded in 1979, but congestion issues persist due to its high volume and lack of layover space. Plans are underway to reconstruct the terminal, incorporating new facilities.
Renovation, 2007
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In 1997, a study led by Professor Marcus Felson of Rutgers University proposed design and supervisory changes to reduce crime at the Port Authority Bus Terminal. In 2007, the terminal's South Wing underwent a $52 million seismic retrofit to enhance earthquake resilience. Additionally, in 1995, PKSB Architects designed improvements including a titanium facade, a canopy at the entrance, and stainless steel cladding for the terminal's ramps and bridges, with the project being completed in 2008.