New High End Bus Service Shuttles Riders From SBU Campus to NYC

An idea raised by Stony Brook University students has resulted in the launch of private bus service from the campus to Queens and Manhattan.

7Bus, a Long Island-based transit company is now providing direct and indirect service between the Stony Brook campus and New York City seven-days-a-week for students and residents.

The buses, equipped with free WiFi, plasma monitors and reclining leather seats among other things, will offer transportation from the campus' student activities center, Rego Park/Queens, 40th St. and 3rd Ave. 50th St. and 3rd Ave. and 60t St. and 3rd Ave.

For eastbound travelers, bus stops are on 40th, 47th, and 59th streets, followed by stops in Rego Park/Queens and the student activities center. The Rego Park/Queens destination will allow passengers the ability to connect with multiple subways to travel to locations in Queens and Brooklyn 

The buses are also equipped with a newsstand library and personal power outlets. Travel time between SBU and New York City is estimated to take between 90 and 120 minutes each way; one-way fare ranges from $7 to $15 depending on demand and when a ticket is purchased.

The idea to provide bus transportation between the campus and Manhattan was initially raised by students who participated in a transportation and parking advisory group during the spring 2013 semester. A survey was floated which received 1,900 responses with more than 70 percent in favor of adding the service.

7Bus president Mike Schoolman said the service, which started on Dec. 9 around final exam time, is pretty popular so far.

“Once we are in the spring semester we will get a more accurate view of demand patterns and will add service based on that,” he said. "We can adjust schedules and add service based on demand very easily."

Area residents can also take advantage of the service. Metered parking on campus is suspended on weekends making it a good option for those who don’t wish to take the train.

7Bus tickets are only available via online reservation and reservations are required in order to board the bus and use the service.  7Bus is separate from existing transportation services offered by the University.

For more information, including schedules, destinations and reservations, please contact 7Bus directly at:  www.7bus.com, or via phone at (631) 725-7777.