The M79: New York City's Bus Ride to Nowhere

Ah, the M79 bus in New York City, a ride so infamous it could make a snail look like a speed demon. This bus route, which runs crosstown on 79th Street in Manhattan, has been the bane of commuters' existence for years. Operating since the 1960s, the M79 is supposed to connect the Upper East Side to the Upper West Side, but it often feels like it's connecting you to a black hole of time. Why, you ask? Because this bus is notorious for its sluggish pace, frequent delays, and overcrowded conditions. It's a perfect example of how public transportation can sometimes be more of a public nuisance.

First off, let's talk about the speed—or lack thereof. The M79 is so slow that you could probably walk across Central Park faster than it takes this bus to make its journey. It's not uncommon to see pedestrians zooming past the bus as it crawls along its route. The traffic congestion on 79th Street is legendary, and the M79 gets caught in it like a fly in a spider's web. The bus is supposed to be a convenient option for those who don't want to deal with the hassle of the subway, but it often ends up being a test of patience.

Then there's the issue of overcrowding. The M79 is often packed to the brim, with passengers squeezed in like sardines. It's a miracle if you can find a seat, and standing room is often at a premium. The bus is supposed to be a lifeline for residents of the Upper East and West Sides, but it often feels more like a cattle car. The overcrowding is exacerbated by the fact that the bus is frequently delayed, leading to long lines of frustrated commuters waiting at the bus stops.

And let's not forget about the reliability—or lack thereof. The M79 is notorious for its unpredictable schedule. You could be waiting for what feels like an eternity, only for two buses to show up at once. It's a classic case of feast or famine, and it leaves commuters feeling like they're playing a game of public transportation roulette. The bus is supposed to be a reliable option for getting across town, but it often ends up being a roll of the dice.

The M79 is also a prime example of how bureaucracy can bog down public services. Despite numerous complaints and calls for improvement, the bus route remains a mess. It's a testament to the inefficiency of government-run services, where red tape and endless meetings seem to take precedence over actually fixing the problem. The M79 is supposed to be a shining example of New York City's commitment to public transportation, but it often feels more like a cautionary tale.

Of course, there are those who will defend the M79, claiming that it's a vital service for the community. But let's be real: the bus is a disaster. It's a perfect example of how public transportation can fail its users, leaving them stranded and frustrated. The M79 is supposed to be a convenient option for getting across town, but it often ends up being a nightmare.

In the end, the M79 is a microcosm of the larger issues facing public transportation in New York City. It's a reminder that even in a city as bustling and vibrant as New York, there are still areas where improvement is desperately needed. The M79 is supposed to be a lifeline for commuters, but it often ends up being a source of frustration and delay. It's a ride to nowhere, and it's time for a change.