Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE Bus)
The Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) bus system is the primary public bus network serving Nassau County, with some service extending into Queens and western Suffolk County. Replacing the former MTA Long Island Bus in 2012, NICE provides critical local transit options for residents, commuters, and visitors. For many Long Islanders, NICE buses are an essential connection between neighborhoods, Long Island Rail Road stations, colleges, shopping centers, and workplaces.
History
- Long Island Bus Origins: Originally operated as part of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the bus system was known as MTA Long Island Bus until 2011.
- Transition to NICE: In 2012, Nassau County privatized operations, awarding management to Veolia Transportation (now Transdev), under the new name Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE).
- Current Role: NICE continues to operate as the primary public bus service in Nassau, carrying tens of thousands of riders daily.
Service Overview
- Coverage Area: NICE buses operate throughout Nassau County, with key routes extending into western Suffolk and eastern Queens.
- Connections: Provides direct links to the Long Island Rail Road, New York City Subway (at Queens terminals), and major commercial centers.
- Fleet: Modern, ADA-accessible buses equipped with bike racks.
- Fare System:
- Base fare: $2.90 (same as NYC buses and subways, with free transfers to other NICE buses).
- MetroCard accepted.
- Transfers available between NICE and NYC MTA buses/subways at certain Queens hubs.
Key Routes
Some of NICE’s busiest and most important routes include:
- n4 – Jamaica, Queens ↔ Freeport via Hempstead Turnpike (one of the busiest routes).
- n6 – Jamaica, Queens ↔ Hempstead Transit Center (heavily used commuter line).
- n20G / n21 – Flushing, Queens ↔ Great Neck / Glen Cove.
- n24 – Jamaica, Queens ↔ Hicksville via Hempstead.
- n35 – Hempstead ↔ Green Acres Mall.
- NICE Able-Ride – Paratransit service for riders with disabilities.
Importance for Nassau County
- Commuters: NICE provides critical access to LIRR stations for those without cars.
- Students: Serves Nassau Community College, Hofstra University, Adelphi University, and other schools.
- Shoppers: Routes connect to Roosevelt Field Mall, Green Acres Mall, and Sunrise Mall.
- Equity & Access: For many residents, NICE buses are the only affordable way to reach jobs and services across the county.
Challenges & Criticism
- Funding: NICE has faced frequent budget shortfalls, leading to service reductions and route cuts.
- Service Gaps: Some areas of Nassau, especially in the east, have limited or no bus coverage.
- Competition with Cars: Nassau’s car-centered development makes bus travel less convenient compared to driving.
Area Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2012 (as NICE, formerly MTA Long Island Bus) |
| Operator | Transdev (for Nassau County) |
| Service Area | Nassau County, parts of Queens & western Suffolk |
| Fleet | ADA-accessible buses with bike racks |
| Base Fare | $2.90 (MetroCard accepted) |
| Special Services | Able-Ride (paratransit) |
The Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) bus system remains an essential part of Nassau County’s public transit network, connecting communities, schools, shopping centers, and train stations across Long Island. While challenges remain in funding and service coverage, NICE continues to provide tens of thousands of daily riders with a reliable and affordable transportation option. For those traveling within Nassau or making connections to Queens and beyond, NICE is a critical piece of the local transit system.
