28/04/2013
Understanding the 'S' Designation in New York City Transit
The New York City Subway system is an intricate network, and understanding its service designations can sometimes feel like deciphering a code. Among these, the 'S' designation holds a specific meaning, primarily relating to shuttle services. These are distinct routes designed to provide connections or operate on segments of the network that may not be covered by the main trunk lines, often during specific times of day or year. This article delves into the various services historically and currently labelled 'S' within the New York City Transit system, exploring their operational patterns, historical context, and the evolution of their designations.
What Exactly is an 'S' Service?
In the context of the New York City Subway, an 'S' designation typically signifies a shuttle service. These services are often shorter routes that connect different lines or provide service to areas with lower ridership, particularly during off-peak hours. While some 'S' services operate as full-time or near full-time operations, others are specifically designated for late-night hours, retaining their regular service labels during the day. It's important to note that the 'S' label has seen various interpretations and uses throughout the subway's history, including temporary shuttles necessitated by construction or special events.
Currently Designated 'S' Services
As of recent operational patterns, there are a few key services officially carrying the 'S' label. These are the routes that most directly answer the question of which NYC transit services are labelled 'S'.
Full-Time or Near Full-Time Shuttles
These are the services that operate with the 'S' designation for the majority of their service hours, providing a consistent shuttle link.
Rockaway Park Shuttle (Rockaway Park–Far Rockaway)
This is arguably the most well-known 'S' service. It operates as a shuttle connecting the Rockaway Peninsula with the rest of the subway system. Historically, its designation has seen changes, including a period where it was labelled 'SS'. However, its current and widely recognised designation is the Rockaway Park Shuttle, often represented by an 'S' on maps and signage. This shuttle is crucial for residents and visitors of the Rockaways, providing essential transit access.
Part-Time 'S' Services (Late Night Shuttles)
Several other services function as shuttles during late-night hours, even if they retain their regular service designations during the day. These are vital for maintaining connectivity when primary services are reduced.
Lenox Shuttle (148th Street to 135th Street)
Historically, the Lenox Shuttle operated between 148th Street and 135th Street, primarily when the regular '3' service did not run to 148th Street. It was in place by 1918 and even earlier, potentially starting in 1905. From 1969 to 1972, it was integrated into the '3' service but continued to function as a shuttle during those specific times. When late-night '3' service was discontinued in 1995 due to low ridership, a free overnight shuttle bus served the route until '3' service was restored in 2008. While not always explicitly labelled 'S' on all rolling stock or maps during its entire operational history, it served a core shuttle function and is often associated with the 'S' designation in discussions of shuttle services.
Myrtle Shuttle (Late Night Service)
Following the cessation of the BMT Myrtle Avenue Line south of Broadway in 1969, a nighttime 'M' shuttle was established. This service used the lower-level platforms at the same station complex. Before 2014, when the 'M' was extended to Essex Street during weekend days, this nighttime service also operated on weekends. Crucially, this service was labelled 'SS' and considered a separate route from the 'M' until they merged in August 1972. While its current designation is the 'M', its historical operation as an 'SS' shuttle highlights the evolving nature of these designations.
Bay Ridge Shuttle (Late Night 'R' Service)
Beginning in 1990, late-night 'R' trains in Brooklyn started operating as a shuttle. This service was cut back from 57th Street in Manhattan to 36th Street, and ran between 36th Street and 95th Street. In 1999, northbound trains began skipping certain stations to streamline operations. From 2002 to 2004, the service was extended north to Pacific Street due to reconstruction. In 2016, late-night 'R' trains were extended further south to Whitehall Street. While primarily operating as the 'R' during daytime, its late-night function as a shuttle, particularly the initial cutback and operational changes, aligns it with the concept of shuttle services, even if not always marked with a standalone 'S'.
Historical 'S' and 'SS' Designations
The 'S' and 'SS' designations have a rich history within the NYC Subway, with various routes adopting them over time. Understanding these historical uses provides valuable context for the current 'S' services.
The Evolution of Shuttle Labels
Before June 1979, all shuttle services were labelled 'SS'. The designation 'S' was reserved for 'special' services, which included unique operations like IND trains to Aqueduct Racetrack. The 'SS' label was first applied in 1967 following the completion of the Chrystie Street Connection, which necessitated a reorganisation of service designations. This historical distinction between 'S' and 'SS' is crucial for understanding older service patterns.
Former Uses of 'S' or 'SS'
Several routes have, in the past, been designated 'S' or 'SS'. These include temporary shuttles implemented due to construction or special events, such as the '2007 Holiday Shopper's Special', which ran on Sundays using museum subway cars. This particular train displayed the (former) 'S Special' on its rollsign.
The 'H' and 'HH' Designations
Some shuttle routes also utilised the 'H' or 'HH' designations, which were the last to be assigned to the Independent Subway System (IND). Notable former uses include the Court Street Shuttle (1936-1946) and the Rockaway Park Shuttle until 1993, when its label was changed to a blue 'S'. A temporary shuttle that operated after Hurricane Sandy in November 2012, connecting the Rockaways after track damage, also used the 'H' designation.
The Third Avenue Elevated
When the Transit Authority began assigning labels to all services, the Third Avenue Elevated was designated as '8' as it was considered too long to be classified as a 'shuttle'. However, trains on this line displayed 'SHUTTLE' on their rollsigns instead of '8'. This service was discontinued in 1973.
Specific Historical Shuttle Services
Nassau Street Shuttle (1999)
This shuttle operated only from May to September 1999 during the rehabilitation of the Williamsburg Bridge. It ran daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, connecting Essex Street with Broad Street (and Chambers Street on weekends, late nights, and evenings). Its operation was a direct response to infrastructure work, showcasing the role of temporary shuttles.
Myrtle Shuttle (2017–2018)
A more recent example, this shuttle involved two trains operating separately on two tracks of the BMT Myrtle Avenue Line between Myrtle-Wyckoff Avenues and Middle Village-Metropolitan Avenue. They ran at all times between September 2017 and April 2018 due to construction on a connector to the BMT Jamaica Line. On maps and schedules, it was designated as an orange 'M', but the rolling stock (R42) displayed a brown 'M', reflecting its historical usage before 2010.
The following table provides a concise overview of services that have been or are currently designated with 'S' or related shuttle labels:
| Service Name | Typical Designation | Operational Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockaway Park Shuttle | S | Ongoing | Connects Rockaway Peninsula |
| Lenox Shuttle | S (historically) | Mid-1900s – early 1970s (and intermittent) | Operated when '3' service was limited |
| Myrtle Avenue Shuttle (late night) | SS (historically), M (currently) | 1969–1972 (as SS), ongoing as M | Lower-level platforms, late-night operation |
| Bay Ridge Shuttle (late night 'R') | R (day), Shuttle (late night) | 1990–2002; 2004–2016 (as late-night shuttle) | Cut back from Manhattan, operational changes |
| Nassau Street Shuttle | S (implied) | May–Sep 1999 | Temporary, due to Williamsburg Bridge rehab |
| Myrtle Avenue Shuttle | M (orange/brown) | 2017–2018 | Temporary, due to BMT Jamaica Line work |
| Court Street Shuttle | H/HH (historically) | 1936–1946 | IND service |
| Rockaway Park Shuttle | SS (historically), S (later) | Until 1993 (as SS) | Label changed to blue 'S' |
| Hurricane Sandy Shuttle | H | Nov 2012 | Temporary, after track damage |
| Holiday Shopper's Special | S Special (former) | Dec Sundays (2007) | Museum cars, special event |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any 'S' trains running in NYC right now?
Yes, the Rockaway Park Shuttle is a prominent 'S' service. Additionally, some lines operate as shuttles during late nights, though they may retain their primary service designation during the day.
What does the 'SS' designation mean?
Historically, the 'SS' designation was used for all shuttle services before June 1979. After that, 'S' was used for shuttles, and 'S' alone was reserved for 'special' services.
Why are some subway lines designated as shuttles?
Shuttle services are typically implemented to provide connections between different subway lines, serve areas with lower demand during specific times (like late nights), or to maintain service during periods of construction or track work.
Has the 'S' designation always meant shuttle?
No, prior to June 1979, 'S' was reserved for 'special' services, while 'SS' denoted shuttle services. The meaning has evolved over time.
Conclusion
The 'S' designation in the New York City Subway is a clear indicator of a shuttle service, providing essential connectivity and flexibility within the vast transit network. From full-time operations like the Rockaway Park Shuttle to historical iterations and temporary solutions during disruptions, these services play a crucial, albeit sometimes understated, role. Understanding the historical context and the nuances of these designations helps in navigating the complexities of NYC's public transportation system.
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