SIM33 Bus Schedule 2026: Comprehensive Staten Island To Midtown Express Guide

The SIM33 express bus remains a critical transit artery for commuters traveling between the North Shore of Staten Island and Midtown Manhattan. In 2026, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has further refined this route to accommodate shifting work patterns and the complete transition to the OMNY 2.0 contactless payment ecosystem.

This guide provides the most up-to-date SIM33 bus schedule, route modifications, and technical commuter insights for the 2026 calendar year. Whether you are a daily commuter from Mariners Harbor or a visitor navigating the express bus network, understanding the nuances of the SIM33 is essential for efficient travel across the Goethals Bridge and through the Lincoln Tunnel.

SIM33 Route Overview and 2026 Service Standards

The SIM33 (Staten Island-Manhattan Express) serves the Arlington, Mariners Harbor, and Elm Park neighborhoods of Staten Island, providing direct access to Midtown Manhattan. Unlike some express routes that focus on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the SIM33 utilizes the Goethals Bridge, traveling through New Jersey via the NJ Turnpike and the Lincoln Tunnel. This routing makes it the primary choice for residents on the northwestern edge of the island.

In 2026, the MTA has maintained the SIM33 as a weekday-only service, focusing resources on peak-direction travel. This means the bus runs toward Manhattan in the morning and toward Staten Island in the evening. There is currently no weekend or late-night service on this specific route, with commuters redirected to the SIM30 or SIM34 during off-peak hours.

Technical Route Specifications

• Primary Corridor (Staten Island): Richmond Terrace, Western Avenue, and South Avenue.
• Primary Corridor (Manhattan): 6th Avenue (Northbound), Madison Avenue (Southbound), and the 42nd Street transit hub.
• Service Type: Limited-stop Express.
• Fleet Profile: 2026 Prevost X3-45 and Nova Bus LFS-Bus models, equipped with high-back seating, USB-C charging ports, and enhanced Wi-Fi 6 connectivity.

SIM33 Weekday Schedule and Frequency 2026

The 2026 schedule reflects the "Pulse Timing" initiative, where buses are dispatched in clusters during the heaviest demand windows to ensure that even if one bus reaches capacity, another is less than five minutes behind.

Morning Commute Dynamics (Staten Island to Midtown)

The heaviest boarding occurs at the intersection of Richmond Terrace and Western Avenue. By the time the SIM33 reaches the South Avenue corridor, seating is often limited. Commuters are advised to utilize the MTA TrainTime app (which integrated bus data in 2025) to check live "Load Levels" before the bus arrives.

Evening Commute Dynamics (Midtown to Staten Island)

In 2026, the SIM33 utilizes the dedicated bus lanes on 6th Avenue. Boarding begins at Greenwich Street and Battery Place before moving uptown. The final Manhattan pickup is typically at 42nd Street and 6th Avenue before the bus enters the Lincoln Tunnel via the Port Authority bypass ramps.

Strategic Commuter Note for 2026

Commuters should be aware that the Lincoln Tunnel Exclusive Bus Lane (XBL) remains highly efficient but can be subject to delays during major infrastructure projects on the NJ Turnpike. Always verify the status of the "Western Route" (SIM33/30/34) versus the "Bridge Route" (SIM1/3/4) during inclement weather, as the Goethals Bridge is occasionally subject to wind restrictions that do not affect the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.

SIM33 Stop List and Neighborhood Connectivity

Understanding exactly where the SIM33 stops is vital for minimizing your walking distance. The 2026 stop list has been optimized for speed, removing two underutilized stops in the Elm Park area to shave four minutes off the total commute time.

Staten Island Boarding Points

1. Arlington: Richmond Terrace and Holland Avenue (Origin).
2. Mariners Harbor: Richmond Terrace and Western Avenue.
3. Mariners Harbor: Western Avenue and Gulf Avenue.
4. Elm Park: Richmond Terrace and Morningstar Road.
5. Graniteville: South Avenue and Forest Avenue.

Manhattan Drop-off and Pickup Points

1. Greenwich Village: 6th Avenue and West Houston Street.
2. Chelsea: 6th Avenue and 23rd Street.
3. Midtown South: 6th Avenue and 34th Street (Herald Square).
4. Midtown: 6th Avenue and 42nd Street (Bryant Park).
5. Midtown East (Return Only): Madison Avenue and 57th Street down to 42nd Street.

Fare Structure and Payment Methods in 2026

As of 2026, the MTA has fully decommissioned the physical MetroCard. All fares on the SIM33 must be paid via OMNY.

• Express Bus Fare: $7.00 per trip.
• Reduced Fare: $3.50 (for eligible seniors and riders with disabilities).
• Fare Caps: The OMNY "Weekly Fare Cap" applies to express buses. After 12 paid SIM33 trips starting Monday, all subsequent rides for the rest of the week are free.
• Transfers: A SIM33 fare includes a free transfer to local buses or the NYC Subway. If transferring from a local bus ($2.90) to the SIM33, you will be charged the difference ($4.10).

Pros and Cons of the SIM33 Route

When choosing your commute from Staten Island, it is helpful to compare the SIM33 against its sister routes and alternative modes of transport like the Staten Island Ferry or the SIM34.

Advantages

• Direct Access: No need to transfer at the St. George Terminal or navigate the subway.
• Northern Coverage: The only express route serving the specific Arlington/Mariners Harbor pocket with high frequency.
• NJ Route Efficiency: The Goethals Bridge/NJ Turnpike route can often be faster than the Verrazzano/Gowanus route during morning congestion.

Disadvantages

• Traffic Vulnerability: A single accident in the Lincoln Tunnel can significantly increase travel time.
• Limited Hours: No midday or weekend service makes it useless for non-traditional work shifts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Riding the SIM33 in 2026

1. Check Real-Time Status: Open the MYmta app or visit the MTA Bus Time website. Enter "SIM33" to see the exact location of the next three buses.
2. Arrive Early: Be at your stop at least 5 minutes before the scheduled arrival. In 2026, buses are strictly timed and will not wait for approaching passengers.
3. Signal the Driver: As the SIM33 approaches, clearly wave to the driver. Express buses often share stops with local buses; the driver needs to know you want the SIM33.
4. Pay via OMNY: Tap your smartphone, wearable device, or OMNY card on the reader located at the front door. Ensure the green light and "Go" message appear.
5. Find a Seat: Express buses do allow standing passengers once seats are full, but for safety on the highway, finding a seat is highly recommended.
6. Request Your Stop: When approaching your Manhattan or Staten Island destination, press the yellow tape or the "Stop" button located on the handrails or overhead.

Troubleshooting and Commuter Tips

Maintaining a smooth commute requires a proactive approach to transit data.

• Lincoln Tunnel Alerts: If the MYmta app shows a "Delay" for the SIM33 due to tunnel congestion, consider taking a local bus to the Staten Island Ferry as a backup.
• Lost and Found: If you leave an item on the SIM33, it will likely end up at the Castleton Depot. Contact the MTA Lost and Found online portal immediately with the bus number (found on the interior or exterior of the vehicle).
• Power and Connectivity: If the USB-C port at your seat is non-functional, please report it via the MTA's digital feedback form. In 2026, these amenities are considered part of the standard service level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the SIM33 bus fare in 2026?

The standard express bus fare is $7.00 per trip, payable exclusively via OMNY. This fare allows for a free transfer to the NYC Subway or local buses within a two-hour window. Frequent riders benefit from the OMNY weekly fare cap, which limits total spending to $84 per week (the cost of 12 trips).

Does the SIM33 run on weekends or holidays?

No, the SIM33 is a weekday-only service and does not operate on Saturdays, Sundays, or major federal holidays. During weekends, residents of Mariners Harbor should use local bus service (such as the S40 or S46) to connect to the Staten Island Ferry or use the SIM30 which provides broader weekend express coverage for the North Shore.

Where can I find the SIM33 bus live?

You can track the SIM33 in real-time using the MTA Bus Time website or the MYmta mobile app. By entering the "SIM33" route number, you can see the GPS location of every bus on the route, along with estimated arrival times and the current passenger load (Empty, Some Seats Available, or Full).

Which bridge does the SIM33 use to get to Manhattan?

The SIM33 uses the Goethals Bridge to cross into New Jersey and then travels via the New Jersey Turnpike to the Lincoln Tunnel. This "Western Route" is designed to serve the northwestern part of Staten Island efficiently, avoiding the congestion of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and the Gowanus Expressway.

Is the SIM33 wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all SIM33 express buses in the 2026 fleet are 100% ADA compliant. Each bus is equipped with a mechanical lift or ramp and dedicated spaces for mobility devices. Drivers are trained to assist with securing wheelchairs and ensuring a safe journey over the highway portions of the route.

Regardless of your destination in Midtown, the SIM33 remains the gold standard for North Shore commuting. By staying informed of the 2026 schedule shifts and utilizing real-time tracking tools, you can ensure a predictable and comfortable journey into the heart of New York City.