:Q20 and Q44 buses

{{See also|Main Street (Queens)#Route description|l1=Main Street (Queens)}}

{{multiple image

| align = left

| direction = vertical

| image1 = New Flyer XD60 Q44 SelectBusService.jpg

| caption1 = A 2016 New Flyer XD60 (6013) on the Q44 SBS at Hugh Grant Circle/Westchester Avenue near Parkchester station in the Bronx

| alt1 =

| image2 = NYCT Bus 2015 New Flyer XD40 7386.jpg

| caption2 = A 2015 XD40 (7386) on the Jamaica-bound Q44 SBS used as a supplement to the normal articulated fleet

| alt2 =

| width = 250

| footer =

| footer_align = left

}}

The current Q44 route begins at the intersection of Merrick Boulevard and Archer Avenue in Downtown Jamaica, Queens (or Jamaica Center), just south of the 165th Street Bus Terminal. This terminus is shared with the {{NYC bus link|Q17}}. Traveling west along Archer Avenue, it passes the Jamaica Center station of the Archer Avenue subway and its bus terminal. At the Sutphin Boulevard subway station, which connects to the Jamaica station of the Long Island Rail Road and AirTrain JFK, the route turns north onto Sutphin Boulevard. It then turns west onto Hillside Avenue and north onto Queens Boulevard, interchanging with two stations of the IND Queens Boulevard Line.

At Main Street the Q44 turns north, running the entire distance of the street between Queens Boulevard and Northern Boulevard in Downtown Flushing (also known as Flushing Chinatown). In Downtown Flushing is the Flushing–Main Street terminal, where several bus lines, the IRT Flushing Line subway, and the LIRR Port Washington Branch interchange. The Q44 shifts onto Union Street and Parsons Boulevard to 14th Avenue in Whitestone, where some buses terminate. It then enters the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge, sharing the bridge with the {{NYC bus link|Q50}}. Throughout Queens, the Q44 provides limited-stop service, making intermittent stops primarily at major intersections and points of interest.{{Cite NYC bus map|Q}}

After entering the Bronx, the Q44 and Q50 follow the Hutchinson River Parkway service road to just south of the Bruckner Interchange, making only two stops: one at Lafayette Avenue, and another one at Brush Avenue and Bruckner Blvd, where passengers can also connect to the {{NYC bus link|Bx5}} bus. While the Q50 turns east to follow the Bx5, the Q44 turns west onto East 177th Street (the Cross Bronx Expressway service road), running along either direction of the road. At the Parkchester subway station, the Q44 goes around the Hugh J. Grant Circle. The Q44 continues along East 177th Street until the interchange with the Sheridan Expressway, where it turns north onto Devoe Avenue. The Q44 stops at East Tremont Avenue near the West Farms Square subway station, and terminates at East 180th Street at the southern boundary of the Bronx Zoo. Buses lay over on a bridge over the Bronx River, before reentering service on Boston Road. Although the Q44's northern terminal is signed as "Bronx Zoo" (formerly "Bronx Zoo − West Farms Square"), the zoo is not accessible from this location; the closest entrance is several blocks north at Bronx Park South and Boston Road.{{Cite NYC bus map|Bx}}

Prior to 1999, the Q44 ran entirely local between Jamaica, Queens and West Farms, Bronx. It was the only bus service along Main Street in Queens. Before the implementation of Select Bus Service in November 2015, the route ran entirely local along East 177th Street. Now it employs an equivalent to limited-stop service on East 177th Street, but with no additional local route operating along the street.

File:Main St Horace Harding td 25 - Queensboro Hill Library.jpg]]

{{#section:Select Bus Service|q44-table}}

File:New Flyer on the Q20A.jpg

The Q20A and B services share the same routing as the Q44 between Jamaica and Whitestone, before diverging west towards their shared terminal in College Point near Flushing Bay. The Q20A branches off at 20th Avenue, running along the northern edge of the former Flushing Airport and serving a large shopping center. This route is shared with the {{NYC bus link|Q76}}. The Q20B turns west farther north at 14th Avenue, running through a much more residential area. Both the 20th and 14th Avenue routes were part of the original Q20, which only ran between College Point and Downtown Flushing. Both routes provide local service, but the Q20A runs at all times, while the Q20B operates only on weekdays.{{cite NYC bus|Q20}}

{{See also|Main Street (Queens)#History|l1=History of Main Street}}

File:NYCT Bus NovaBus LFS Artic 5916 and 5928.jpg articulated LFSs (5916 & 5928) in Flushing, Queens in July 2015, five months before implementation of Select Bus Service.]]

On February 15, 1932, North Shore Bus Company began operating a bus service to replace the Long Island Rail Road's Whitestone Branch.{{cite news|title=New Bus Line Seen As Relief to Whitestone|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/3956231/whitestone_branch_replaced_by_bus/|access-date=January 3, 2016|publisher=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|date=January 6, 1932|archive-date=October 28, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161028091836/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/3956231/whitestone_branch_replaced_by_bus/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Whitestone Seen Served by Buses When L.I.R. Quits: City Shows No Signs of Activity to Give Rapid Transit to North Shore|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/57280090/?terms=%22whitestone%2Bbranch%22%2Bbus|via=Newspapers.com|newspaper=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|access-date=January 5, 2016|page=3|date=January 5, 1932|archive-date=October 28, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161028091741/https://www.newspapers.com/image/57280090/?terms=%22whitestone%2Bbranch%22%2Bbus|url-status=live}} This service was labeled the "Q35".{{cite news|title=City Will Protect Bus Employees By Clauses in All New Franchises; 32 Separate Bids Made for Routes in Queens; Green Line Offers 15 Per Cent for Entire Borough|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201934%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201934%2520-%25201944.pdf|access-date=January 12, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=April 6, 1934|page=9|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215055943/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201934/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201934%20-%201944.pdf|url-status=live}} This service was different from the current {{NYC bus link|Q35}} service between Brooklyn and Rockaway Park. It ran from the Flushing–Main Street terminal, north along Linden Street (now Linden Place) and 127th Street to 14th Avenue through Flushing and College Point.{{cite web|title=North Shore Bus Routes Changes By Repaving Work: Flushing and Whitestone Projects Necessitate Shifts in Three Lines|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/59975592/?terms=%22north%2Bshore%2Bbus%22|via=Newspapers.com|newspaper=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|access-date=January 8, 2016|date=August 4, 1932|archive-date=May 11, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220511031112/https://www.newspapers.com/image/59975592/?terms=%22north%2Bshore%2Bbus%22|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Whitestone Bus Express Service Is Discontinued: North Shore Bus Company Blames Lack of Adequate Patronage|url=http://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2015/Brooklyn%20NY%20Daily%20Star/Brooklyn%20NY%20Daily%20Star%201932/Brooklyn%20NY%20Daily%20Star%201932%20-%202477.pdf|website=Fultonhistory.com|publisher=Brooklyn Daily Star|access-date=January 8, 2016|page=14|date=June 28, 1932|archive-date=March 20, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230320062537/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2015/Brooklyn%20NY%20Daily%20Star/Brooklyn%20NY%20Daily%20Star%201932/Brooklyn%20NY%20Daily%20Star%201932%20-%202477.pdf|url-status=live}} This is the routing of the current {{NYC bus link|Q25}} bus in the area. The original Q35 then ran east along 14th Avenue before following the current {{NYC bus link|Q76}} and {{NYC bus link|Q15}} routes to Whitestone.

On May 2, 1933, North Shore Bus began a shuttle service along Main Street between Main Street/Roosevelt Avenue subway station in Flushing and Horace Harding Boulevard (now the Long Island Expressway) in Queensboro Hill. This was the predecessor to Q44 service.{{cite web|title=Queensboro Hill Bus To Run Tomorrow|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/58265033/?terms=flushing%2Bbronx%2B%22north%2Bshore%2Bbus%22|via=Newspapers.com|newspaper=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|access-date=December 17, 2015|page=10|date=May 1, 1933|archive-date=October 1, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231001102035/https://www.newspapers.com/image/58265033/?terms=flushing%2Bbronx%2B%22north%2Bshore%2Bbus%22|url-status=live}} At the time, Main Street had yet to be extended south past Reeves Avenue (the north end of modern Queens College).{{cite map|title=Nostrand's Map New York City: Kew Gardens Hills|last=Nostrand|first=George J.|url=http://forgotten-ny.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/mainst.1932-525x380.jpg|date=1932|access-date=January 16, 2018|archive-date=September 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160913040438/http://forgotten-ny.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/mainst.1932-525x380.jpg|url-status=live}}

On September 22, 1935, the North Shore Bus Company acquired, but did not merge with, the Flushing Heights Bus Corporation which operated the {{NYC bus link|Q17}} and the {{NYC bus link|Q25}} services between Jamaica and Flushing.{{cite news|title=Bus Routes Changed By Zone Plan; Some Riders to be Forced to Transfer; Committee Takes Corona Line From North Shore, Gives It to Tri-Boro|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201936%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201936%2520-%25200945.pdf|access-date=January 12, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press (Long Island Sunday Press)|agency=Fultonhistory.com|issue=316|date=January 12, 1936|page=4|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215055949/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201936/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201936%20-%200945.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title = North Shore Company Takes Over Rival's Routes|url = https://www.newspapers.com/clip/3951421/flushing_heights_bus_company_taken_over/|access-date = January 3, 2016|publisher = Brooklyn Daily Eagle|date = September 24, 1935|archive-date = October 28, 2016|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161028085815/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/3951421/flushing_heights_bus_company_taken_over/|url-status = live}} North Shore only acquired the Q25 on a temporary basis; as compensation, the city assured the company that they would get a new route between Flushing and Jamaica via Main Street. This was planned to go into service after the extension of Main Street, including a bridge over the Grand Central Parkway, was completed. In 1937, several major bus route changes occurred. Queens–Nassau Transit took over the Q25 service and combined it with their Q34 route along Linden Place and 127th Street in College Point (predecessor to the northern portion of the current Q25). The Q35 was discontinued by North Shore, and was replaced by a new Q20 service.{{cite news|title=Survey Shows Commuters in Zone B Want More Buses Run in Rush Hours: North Shore Passengers Praise Equipment as Improvement|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201937%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201937%2520-%25202237.pdf|access-date=January 12, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=April 7, 1937|page=2|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215055943/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201937/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201937%20-%202237.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Survey Shows Commuters in Zone B Want More Buses Run in Rush Hours: North Shore Passengers Praise Equipment as Improvement|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201937%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201937%2520-%25202236.pdf|access-date=January 12, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=April 7, 1937|page=1|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215055944/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201937/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201937%20-%202236.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Franchises Awarded for Thirty-Four Bus Routes|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201936%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201936%2520-%25205611.pdf|access-date=January 12, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=September 25, 1936|page=10|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215055943/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201936/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201936%20-%205611.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Summer City Hall Linked By Buses: Queens-Nassau Transit to Start Jamaica to College Point Route|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/3951560/the_brooklyn_daily_eagle/|access-date=January 3, 2016|publisher=The Brooklyn Daily Eagle|date=July 15, 1937|page=32|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215055948/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-brooklyn-daily-eagle-q-25-34-creatio/3951560/|url-status=live}} The route of the Q20 was the same as the current route of the Q20B (via 14th Avenue), except that it continued north along 122nd Street (now College Point Boulevard) and followed the same looping route as the current Q25 (then Q34) near MacNeil Park at the north end of the borough.{{cite news|title=College Point Backs Move to Curb TA|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201957%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201957%2520-%25200384.pdf|access-date=January 11, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=January 14, 1957|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215060446/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201957/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201957%20-%200384.pdf|url-status=live}}

File:Q44 SBS Flushing.jpg

In December 1936, North Shore applied for a franchise on route "Q-44" between Flushing and Jamaica via Main Street.{{cite news|title=Franchise Hearing: Motor Omnibus Lines, Queens|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201936%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201936%2520-%25207304.pdf|access-date=January 9, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=December 4, 1936|page=28|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215060447/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201936/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201936%20-%207304.pdf|url-status=live}} On March 22, 1938, Q44 service began between Flushing–Main Street and Archer Avenue at the Jamaica Long Island Rail Road station,{{cite news|title=Harvey Sees New Bus Route As Spur to Queens Shopping: Ceremonies Mark Opening of Jamaica-Flushing Transit Line|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2520-%25203153.pdf|access-date=January 8, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=March 23, 1938|location=Section Two|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215060453/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201938/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201938%20-%203153.pdf|url-status=live}}{{Cite book|url=https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=uc1.b3003287;view=1up;seq=181|title=Eighteenth Annual Report For the Calendar Year 1938|publisher=Department of Public Service Metropolitan Division Transit Commission|year=1939|pages=171–172|access-date=July 23, 2018|archive-date=May 11, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220511032609/https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=uc1.b3003287;view=1up;seq=181|url-status=live}} when Main Street was extended south to the Grand Central Parkway.{{cite news|title=Main Street Extension Is A 'Hot Potato': With Coming of Fall, Civic Leaders Are Again Demanding Action|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2520-%25205034.pdf|access-date=January 13, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=September 6, 1938|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215060452/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201938/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201938%20-%205034.pdf|url-status=live}} The company advertised the route as the shortest "from the entire North Shore" of Queens to Jamaica, running 15 minutes between terminals.{{cite news|title=Buses to Pass Courthouse|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201939%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201939%2520-%25201097.pdf|access-date=January 9, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=February 28, 1939|page=9|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215060452/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201939/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201939%20-%201097.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|author1=North Shore Bus Company|author-link=North Shore Bus Company|title=New Bus Line: Traveling Time Cut in HALF|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2520-%25203116.pdf|access-date=January 9, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=March 21, 1938|page=3|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215060454/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201938/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201938%20-%203116.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|author1=North Shore Bus Company|author-link=North Shore Bus Company|title=Route Q-44: Flushing and Jamaica|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2520-%25200196.pdf|access-date=January 9, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=July 11, 1938|page=10|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215060517/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201938/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201938%20-%200196.pdf|url-status=live}} Following the opening of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge in April 1939,{{cite news |title=WHITESTONE SPAN OPENED BY MAYOR; New Bronx-Long Island Link Hailed as Symbol of City's Never-Ending Progress |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1939/04/30/archives/whitestone-span-opened-by-mayor-new-bronxlong-island-link-hailed-as.html |newspaper=The New York Times |date=April 30, 1939 |access-date=November 4, 2007 |archive-date=June 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616030452/https://www.nytimes.com/1939/04/30/archives/whitestone-span-opened-by-mayor-new-bronxlong-island-link-hailed-as.html |url-status=live }} North Shore began operating bus service between West Farms Square in the Bronx and the 1939 New York World's Fair in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park on July 1 of that year.{{cite news|title=New Bus Service In Bronx: Line Starts From West Farms Square and Runs to World's Fair|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1939/07/02/129146522.pdf|access-date=January 9, 2016|work=The New York Times|date=July 2, 1939|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061003/https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1939/07/02/129146522.html?pdf_redirect=true&site=false|url-status=live}} On October 28, 1940, this route was combined with the Q44, running from Kew Gardens–Union Turnpike station (along the route that would become the {{NYC bus link|Q74}}) through Whitestone and along East 177th Street in the Bronx to Tremont Avenue and Boston Road at West Farms Square. An alternate branch ran to Westchester Square, Bronx.{{cite news|title=For the Convenience of A, B and C Car Owners|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201942%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201942%2520-%25205404.pdf|access-date=January 9, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=December 22, 1942|page=7|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061003/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201942/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201942%20-%205404.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=New Bus Setup Links Bronx Span and Borough Hall: North Shore Extension Gives Service Via Flushing Center|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201940%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201940%2520-%25204493.pdf|access-date=January 9, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=October 25, 1940|page=10|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061005/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201940/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201940%20-%204493.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Bus Service to Whitestone|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2520-%25204912.pdf|access-date=January 9, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=October 25, 1940|page=11|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061015/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201940/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201940%20-%204912.pdf|url-status=live}} By December of that year, the Q44 returned to Jamaica, running to the 165th Street Bus Terminal.

On July 1, 1939, the Q20 became interlined with the Q17, meaning that south of Flushing the bus would continue via the Q17 route to the Jamaica−165th Street terminal.{{cite news|title=College Point Buses Ready|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201939%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201939%2520-%25201969.pdf|access-date=January 13, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=June 30, 1939|page=26|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061006/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201939/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201939%20-%201969.pdf|url-status=live}} The service was designated "Q17-20" or "Q20-17" and rollsigns would display Q17/20.{{cite news|title=Estates Buses Abandon Jamaica Terminal Stop|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2520-%25206071.pdf|access-date=January 8, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=December 16, 1940|page=1|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061006/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201940/Jamaica%20NY%20Long%20Island%20Daily%20Press%201940%20-%206071.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|author1=North Shore Bus Company|author-link=North Shore Bus Company|title=To Our Riders|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201946%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201946%2520-%25200792.pdf|access-date=January 13, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=February 1, 1946|page=20|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061021/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201946/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201946%20-%200792.pdf|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/127872292@N06/24076494441/in/dateposted/ |title=Q17/20 Rollsign |access-date=January 13, 2016 |archive-date=March 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324000610/https://www.flickr.com/photos/127872292@N06/24076494441/in/dateposted/ |url-status=live }} Beginning on June 8, 1942, due to restrictions on gasoline and tire usage during World War II, the service was truncated to 14th Avenue and 122nd Street in College Point.{{cite news|title=Bus Schedules Revised to Save Gas and Tires: Transit Commission Order Goes Into Effect June 8 on Queens Routes|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201942%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201942%2520-%25202214.pdf|access-date=January 13, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=May 27, 1942|page=1|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061511/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201942/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201942%20-%202214.pdf|url-status=live}} Service north of 14th Avenue was restored on February 4, 1946. The Q20 was separated from the Q17 during off-peak "base period" hours on January 27, 1947.{{cite news|author1=North Shore Bus Company|author-link=North Shore Bus Company|title=Notice of Change in Bus Schedules|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201947%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201947%2520a%2520-%25201041.pdf|access-date=January 9, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=January 24, 1947|page=11|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061513/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201947/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201947%20a%20-%201041.pdf|url-status=live}} In March of that year, North Shore Bus would be taken over by the New York City Board of Transportation (later the New York City Transit Authority [NYCTA]), making the bus routes city operated.{{cite news|title=CITY TAKES OVER BUS LINE: O'Connor Selected to Operate North Shore System|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1947/03/30/99268704.pdf|access-date=March 27, 2016|work=The New York Times|date=March 30, 1947|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061514/https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1947/03/30/99268704.html?pdf_redirect=true&site=false|url-status=live}}{{cite book|last=Sparberg|first=Andrew J.|title=From a Nickel to a Token: The Journey from Board of Transportation to MTA|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oktGCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA111|date=October 1, 2014|publisher=Fordham University Press|isbn=978-0-8232-6190-1}}{{cite web|title=120-Passenger Vehicles Added For Next Week: 10 City Lines Will HAve All New Equipment by Wednesday|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201948%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201948%2520a%2520-%25200261.pdf|website=Fultonhistory.com|publisher=Long Island Star-Journal|access-date=January 9, 2016|page=2|date=December 31, 1948|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061514/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201948/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201948%20a%20-%200261.pdf|url-status=live}} The joint Q17-20 service later became popular among students of St. John's University, and residents from Jamaica Estates and Flushing Heights (now Kew Gardens Hills) shopping in Downtown Flushing.{{cite news|title=TA Gets Plea To Reinstate Bus Route|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201960%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201960%2520a%2520-%25201194.pdf|access-date=January 11, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=December 19, 1960|page=5|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061517/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201960/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201960%20a%20-%201194.pdf|url-status=live}}

On February 3, 1957, the NYCTA separated the Q17 and Q20 services at all times, eliminated service north of 14th Avenue and 122nd Street (College Point Boulevard), and renamed the Q20 the Q44FS (Flushing Shuttle).{{cite news|last1=Mooney Jr.|first1=Joseph W.|title=New Bus Schedules Will Force Some Riders to Transfer Twice|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201957%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201957%2520-%25201009.pdf|access-date=January 11, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=February 1, 1957|page=6|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061516/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201957/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201957%20-%201009.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last1=Mooney Jr.|first1=Joseph W.|title=New Bus Schedules Will Force Some Riders to Transfer Twice|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201957%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201957%2520-%25200998.pdf|access-date=January 11, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=February 1, 1957|page=1|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215061517/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201957/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201957%20-%200998.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last1=Mooney, Jr.|first1=Joseph W.|title=Bus Cuts Begin at Midnight And Bayside Hills Won'y Like 'Em|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201957%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201957%2520-%25201040.pdf|access-date=January 13, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=February 2, 1957|page=1|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215062019/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201957/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201957%20-%201040.pdf|url-status=live}} It was one of several routes using the "Q44" designation including the Q44 itself, the Q44A (now the {{NYC bus link|Q46}}), the Q44B (a shuttle to Malba, Queens which has since been discontinued), and the Q44VP (later the Q74).{{cite web|title=New Queens Bus route Hailed: Welcome Service to Park Area|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/53409615/?terms=179th%2Bsubway|via=Newspapers.com|newspaper=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|access-date=September 16, 2015|date=May 4, 1942|archive-date=October 28, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161028084100/https://www.newspapers.com/image/53409615/?terms=179th%2Bsubway|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=1975 Queens Bus Map|url=http://www.wardmaps.com/viewasset.php?aid=16356|website=wardmaps.com|publisher=New York City Transit Authority|access-date=February 18, 2016|date=1975|archive-date=March 9, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309120301/http://www.wardmaps.com/viewasset.php?aid=16356|url-status=live}}

During the 1964 New York World's Fair, special Q44 service was inaugurated, running to the Rodman Street entrance of Flushing Meadows Park. The routes, designated "Q44 WF" and marked "World's Fair", originated from either West Farms Square or 165th Street and made stops on the Bronx or Queens portions of the route respectively before terminating at the fair.{{cite news|title=TA Schedules Fair Buses|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201964%2FLong%2520Island%2520%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201964%2520-%25202911.pdf|access-date=January 13, 2016|work=Long Island Star-Journal|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=March 23, 1964|page=3|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215062021/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201964/Long%20Island%20%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201964%20-%202911.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=2 New Bus Routes Will Link Brooklyn With World's Fair|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1964/02/05/97168226.pdf|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 17, 2015|date=February 5, 1964|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215062114/https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1964/02/05/97168226.html?pdf_redirect=true&site=false|url-status=live}}

On July 11, 1966, the NYCTA moved the terminals of the Q13, Q14, Q16, Q28, and Q44FS from downtown Flushing to the Flushing Parking Field surrounded by 37th Avenue, Union Street, 138th Street, and 39th Avenue on a six-month pilot basis. The change, which was made at the request of multiple Queens elected officials, was intended to provide shelter for riders and reduce downtown congestion. However, due to immediate opposition from shoppers, who complained that the change forced them to walk four blocks to get from the subway to the buses, businessmen, and elected officials, on July 20, 1966, the NYCTA announced that it would undo the change on July 24. Q13, Q16, and Q28 service would go back to terminating on the north side of Roosevelt Avenue to the east of Main Street, while Q14 and Q44FS service would resume terminating on the east side of Main Street at 39th Avenue.{{Cite news |date=July 21, 1966 |title=Yelps Spell End for Bus Line End |work=New York Daily News |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/98000373/daily-news/ |access-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320142008/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/98000373/daily-news/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite book |last= |first= |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=sZPVAAAAMAAJ&q=%22BUS+ROUTE+Q/44%22 |title=Minutes and Proceedings of the New York City Transit Authority |date=1966 |publisher=New York City Transit Authority |pages=122–125, 299–300 |language=en |access-date=April 15, 2022 |archive-date=January 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230101031354/https://books.google.com/books?id=sZPVAAAAMAAJ&q=%22BUS+ROUTE+Q/44%22 |url-status=live }} Queens Borough President Mario Cariello had sent a letter to the NYCTA asking for the change in service to be reversed on July 18. The NYCTA had made the change in service at his request in April. Cariello noted that many of his constituents had requested the change.{{Cite news |date=July 19, 1966 |title=Riders Change Minds, Want Bus Line Back |work=New York Daily News |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/98000498/daily-news/ |access-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320143714/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/98000498/daily-news/ |url-status=live }}

In December 1967, the NYCTA transmitted a proposed extension of the Q44 by {{Convert|4.33|mi|km}} to serve Co-Op City and to make a minor change at the western terminal of the route due to the conversion of some streets to one-way to the Board of Estimate.{{Cite book |last=Authority |first=New York City Transit |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HJTVAAAAMAAJ&q=flushing+bronx |title=Minutes and Proceedings |date=1967 |pages=400 |language=en |access-date=April 15, 2022 |archive-date=December 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215062022/https://books.google.com/books?id=HJTVAAAAMAAJ&q=flushing+bronx |url-status=live }} In October 1969, the General Superintendent of the NYCTA recommended modifying the route of the Q44 in the Bronx to eliminate its use of streets deemed to be "inadequate for bus passage." The route would be modified to run along East Tremont Avenue between Boston Road and Bryant Avenue, Bryant Avenue between Boston Road and East Tremont Avenue, and Boston Road between Bryant Avenue and East Tremont Avenue.{{Cite book |last=Authority |first=New York City Transit |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=c-gxGpL_JNQC&q=%22modified%22+%22Bus+Route%22+%22board+of+estimate%22 |title=Proceedings of the New York City Transit Authority Relating to Matters Other Than Operation |date=1969 |publisher=The Authority |pages=379 |language=en |access-date=April 15, 2022 |archive-date=December 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215062023/https://books.google.com/books?id=c-gxGpL_JNQC&q=%22modified%22+%22Bus+Route%22+%22board+of+estimate%22 |url-status=live }}

On April 15, 1990,{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/27994082/your_old_bus_may_bear_new_number/|title=Your old bus may bear new number|date=April 9, 1990|work=New York Daily News|access-date=February 3, 2019|pages=238|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215062027/https://www.newspapers.com/article/daily-news-your-old-bus-may-bear-new-num/27994082/|url-status=live}} the Q44FS was renumbered to Q20; at this time 20th Avenue service began, when the street was widened and the shopping center was constructed.{{cite news|last1=Hughes|first1=C.J.|title=Attention, Shore Lovers|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1988/07/27/business/real-estate-college-point-projects-add-office-space.html|access-date=April 22, 2016|work=The New York Times|date=October 21, 2011|archive-date=May 8, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160508091352/http://www.nytimes.com/1988/07/27/business/real-estate-college-point-projects-add-office-space.html|url-status=live}} In September 1995, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) eliminated weekend service on the Q20, making it a weekday-only service.{{Cite web|title = AROUND THE BLOCK TOUGH BRAKE AS BUS CUTS BEGIN|url = http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/boroughs/block-tough-brake-bus-cuts-article-1.702010|website = NY Daily News|access-date = December 31, 2015|archive-date = March 4, 2016|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304105718/http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/boroughs/block-tough-brake-bus-cuts-article-1.702010|url-status = live}} On January 11, 1998, the Q44 began running on Archer Avenue between Merrick Boulevard and Sutphin Boulevard in both directions to provide direct access to the Long Island Rail Road's Jamaica station and to eliminate difficult turns on congested streets.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mta.nyc.ny.us:80/nyct/Bus/bussrvno.htm|title=Bus Service Notices|date=January 14, 1998|website=mta.nyc.ny.us|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19980127005048/http://www.mta.nyc.ny.us/nyct/Bus/bussrvno.htm|archive-date=January 27, 1998|url-status=dead|access-date=February 3, 2019|df=mdy-all}} A new turnaround loop was set up using Archer Avenue, 168th Street, Jamaica Avenue, and Merrick Boulevard. Previously, southbound buses ran along Jamaica Avenue until Merrick Boulevard, and northbound buses ran along Archer Avenue and 153rd Street until they turned onto Jamaica Avenue. This change was presented to the MTA Board for approval in November 1997, and was initially going to take effect in December 1997.

• {{Cite book|url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/127872292@N06/48479710076/in/album-72157710156660842/|title=NYC Transit Committee Agenda November 1997|date=November 17, 1997|publisher=New York City Transit|pages=121}}
• {{Cite book|url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/127872292@N06/48479709321/in/album-72157710156660842/|title=NYC Transit Committee Agenda November 1997|date=November 17, 1997|publisher=New York City Transit|pages=122}}
• {{Cite book|url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/127872292@N06/48479859337/in/album-72157710156660842/|title=NYC Transit Committee Agenda November 1997|date=November 17, 1997|publisher=New York City Transit|pages=123–124}}
• {{Cite book|url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/127872292@N06/48479858452/in/album-72157710156660842/|title=NYC Transit Committee Agenda November 1997|date=November 17, 1997|publisher=New York City Transit|pages=125}}

On June 27, 1999,{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/27985636/new_q44_and_q20_services_starting/|title=New Q44 and Q20 services starting Sunday, June 27.|date=June 28, 1999|work=New York Daily News|access-date=February 3, 2019|pages=634|archive-date=February 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190204065711/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/27985636/new_q44_and_q20_services_starting/|url-status=live}} the Q44 began limited-stop service in Queens, with the Q20 split into two branches (Q20A and Q20B) to provide local service, with the Q20B providing service along the old Q20 route on 14th Street, and the Q20A providing new service along 20th Avenue. The addition of service along 20th Avenue was done at the request of owners of commercial developments on the avenue, such as BJ's and Target.{{Cite news|title=Q44 Route Change Makes For Complicated Commutes|last=Schack|first=Richard|date=July 15–21, 1999|work=Queens Tribune}} Weekend service was also restored on the Q20A. Since the Q44 became limited, the Q20 was extended south along Main Street to make local stops. Prior to the change, Q20 service had run during weekdays only from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. at frequencies of 15 to 30 minutes.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mta.nyc.ny.us/nyct/Bus/Bus_schedules/q20.htm|title=Q20 Bus Schedule|date=1997-02-02|website=mta.nyc.ny.us|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970202101627/http://www.mta.nyc.ny.us/nyct/Bus/Bus_schedules/q20.htm|archive-date=February 2, 1997|url-status=dead|access-date=June 28, 2019}} At this time, the Q44 was shifted from its historical route in the neighborhood of Briarwood between Union Turnpike and Hillside Avenue. It had previously turned east onto the Grand Central Parkway service road and then turned south onto 150th Street towards Jamaica, the same route employed since 1938 when Main Street dead-ended at the Grand Central service road.{{cite news|title=Letters to the Editor: Appeals to Police for Traffic Relief|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201938%2520-%25204110.pdf|access-date=January 13, 2016|work=Long Island Daily Press|agency=Fultonhistory.com|date=April 28, 1938|page=16}} It was rerouted to continue south via Main Street, and then via Queens Boulevard to Hillside Avenue.{{cite web|last1=Bertrand|first1=Donald|title=ROUTE OF BUS TROUBLES TRANSIT CHANGES HURT SOME IN BRIARWOOD|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/boroughs/route-bus-troubles-transit-hurt-briarwood-article-1.844789|work=Daily News (New York)|access-date=December 16, 2015|date=August 12, 1999|archive-date=March 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307183223/http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/boroughs/route-bus-troubles-transit-hurt-briarwood-article-1.844789|url-status=live}} Initially, Q44 buses made limited stops from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays, and from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays. The changes in service on the Q44 and Q20 were made to increase ridership growth and to serve new markets. On July 29, 1999, a meeting was held at Borough Hall, with officials of the MTA in attendance, to discuss the changes. Many riders spoke against the changes, noting that the change made it harder for senior citizens and people with disabilities who had used the stops along 150th Street, and that the change added an additional transfer to complete their trips, requiring an additional fare. A spokesperson for the MTA said that it had no plans to revert the change in service, and noted that the areas on Queens Boulevard and Main Street that the Q44 was rerouted to had increased in density.{{Cite news|title=Q44 Bus Debate Continues|last=Schack|first=Richard|date=August 5–11, 1999|work=Queens Tribune}} Briarwood residents had organized and circulated a petition in opposition to the loss of bus service on 150th Street soon after the changes took effect. This change was announced to elected officials in late March 1999, and was approved by the MTA Board on April 15, 1999.{{Cite news|title=Seniors Stranded in Briarwood. New bus route cuts neighborhood stops.|last=Chu|first=Kathy|date=August 13, 1999|work=Newsday}}

On April 1, 2005, Q44 limited-stop service at Main Street and Sanford Avenue was discontinued, with service continuing to be provided by the Q20A and Q20B.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mta.info:80/nyct/service/bus/bussrvnoqn.htm|title=Bus Service Notices Queens|date=2005|website=mta.info|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050405034350/http://www.mta.info/nyct/service/bus/bussrvnoqn.htm|archive-date=April 5, 2005|url-status=dead|access-date=July 30, 2018}}

thumb

File:NYCT Bus 2017 New Flyer XD60 6001.jpg in 2016, and a 2016 XD60 (6001) on the Jamaica-bound Q44 SBS at Main Street/62nd Road in Flushing.]]

In 2004 and 2006, the Main Street corridor was identified as a potential route for Flushing-Jamaica bus rapid transit (BRT) service, as part of the first phase of the MTA and DOT's Select Bus Service (SBS) plan.{{cite web | url=http://www.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/2015-06-09-brt-flushing-jamaica-cb12.pdf | title=Q44 Select Bus Service: Queens Community Board 12 Transportation Committee | work=New York City Department of Transportation | date=June 9, 2015 | access-date=October 16, 2015 | archive-date=September 14, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230914204014/https://www.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/2015-06-09-brt-flushing-jamaica-cb12.pdf | url-status=live }}{{cite web|title=Bus Rapid Transit: NYCBRT Study|url=http://www.mta.info/mta/planning/brt/brt_presentation.pdf|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority, New York City Department of Transportation, New York State Department of Transportation|access-date=February 15, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050512082953/http://www.mta.info/mta/planning/brt/brt_presentation.pdf|archive-date=May 12, 2005|url-status=dead|date=2004}} The corridor was ultimately not included in the first phase of SBS routes. In February 2008, the MTA proposed an additional limited-stop service on the northern portion of the corridor between Flushing and Fordham Plaza, provisionally named the Q94. Eliminating the required transfer to the {{NYC bus link|Bx9}} at East 180th Street, it was referred to as a "Super Limited", and would have also replaced the special {{NYC bus link|X32}} school service (since discontinued) between Queens and Bedford Park.{{cite web|title=MTA 2008 Adopted Budget: February Financial Plan 2008-2011|url=http://web.mta.info/mta/budget/feb2008/0208_full.pdf|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|access-date=December 26, 2015|date=February 2008|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304060955/http://web.mta.info/mta/budget/feb2008/0208_full.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Fordham Plaza: Conceptual Design Study|url=http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/edc_fordham_plaza_conceptual.pdf|website=nyc.gov|publisher=New York City Department of Transportation, New York City Economic Development Corporation|access-date=September 24, 2015|date=2010|archive-date=September 14, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150914145559/http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/edc_fordham_plaza_conceptual.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Block|first1=Dorian|title=Upgrades for crowded subway & buses|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/bronx/upgrades-crowded-subway-buses-article-1.307787|work=Daily News (New York)|access-date=December 26, 2015|date=February 19, 2008|archive-date=December 15, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151215081855/http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/bronx/upgrades-crowded-subway-buses-article-1.307787|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Bertrand|first1=Donald|title=Summer hike in subway, bus services|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/queens/summer-hike-subway-bus-services-article-1.312417|work=Daily News (New York)|access-date=December 26, 2015|date=February 25, 2008|archive-date=February 22, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160222192116/http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/queens/summer-hike-subway-bus-services-article-1.312417|url-status=live}}

Though the Q94 was never implemented, the Q44 route was included in the SBS Phase II study in 2009.{{cite web|title=Introduction to BUS RAPID TRANSIT PHASE II|url=http://web.mta.info/mta/planning/sbs/docs/intro_to_brt_phase2.pdf|publisher=New York City Department of Transportation, Metropolitan Transportation Authority|date=2009|access-date=January 13, 2016|archive-date=October 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201019163017/http://web.mta.info/mta/planning/sbs/docs/intro_to_brt_phase2.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=BUS RAPID TRANSIT PHASE II: Future Corridors|url=http://www.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/brt_future_corridors.pdf|publisher=New York City Department of Transportation, Metropolitan Transportation Authority|access-date=January 1, 2016|date=June 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304211613/http://www.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/brt_future_corridors.pdf|archive-date=March 4, 2016|url-status=dead}} On June 9, 2012, the Q44 became the first route in Queens to have a fleet of articulated buses;{{cite web|title=Northeast Queens Bus Study|url=http://www.mta.info/sites/default/files/northeast_queens_bus_study_-_final_9-28-15.pdf|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|access-date=December 11, 2015|date=September 2015|archive-date=December 19, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219015630/http://www.mta.info/sites/default/files/northeast_queens_bus_study_-_final_9-28-15.pdf|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|title=MTA Bus Operations Committee Meeting July 2012|url=http://web.mta.info/mta/news/books/archive/120723_1000_BUS.pdf|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|access-date=March 9, 2016|date=July 2012|archive-date=September 5, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905232710/http://web.mta.info/mta/news/books/archive/120723_1000_BUS.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Rafter|first1=Domenick|title=CB 9 articulates ire on articulated buses|url=http://www.qchron.com/editions/south/cb-articulates-ire-on-articulated-buses/article_c4096e38-58f6-5385-a774-e8e9cd9cfdc7.html|publisher=Queens Chronicle|access-date=October 29, 2015|date=October 24, 2013|archive-date=January 29, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170129134500/http://www.qchron.com/editions/south/cb-articulates-ire-on-articulated-buses/article_c4096e38-58f6-5385-a774-e8e9cd9cfdc7.html|url-status=live}} the same buses (the Nova Bus LFS model) used on SBS service. In 2014, the 164th Street corridor ({{NYC bus link|Q65}}) and the Parsons/Kissena corridor ({{NYC bus link|Q25}} and {{NYC bus link|Q34}}) joined the Main Street corridor as potential SBS routes between Flushing and Jamaica.{{cite web|title=Flushing to Jamaica Select Bus Service Stakeholder Meeting June 11, 2014|url=http://www.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/2014-06-11-brt-flushingjamaica-cac1-presentation.pdf|website=nyc.gov|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority, New York City Department of Transportation|access-date=January 4, 2016|date=June 11, 2014|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304211504/http://www.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/2014-06-11-brt-flushingjamaica-cac1-presentation.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Toure|first1=Madina|title=NE Queens leaders wary of Select Bus Service proposal|url=http://www.timesledger.com/stories/2015/4/bustransit_tl_2015_01_23_q.html|website=timesledger.com|publisher=Times Ledger|access-date=July 6, 2015|date=January 22, 2015|archive-date=July 6, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706190804/http://www.timesledger.com/stories/2015/4/bustransit_tl_2015_01_23_q.html|url-status=live}} The Q25 Limited and Q44 Limited were selected for further studies, with the Q44 prioritized due to its high ridership, interborough connection between Queens and the Bronx, and the width of Main Street to facilitate bus lanes.{{cite web|title=Flushing to Jamaica Select Bus Service Public Workshop October 7, 2014|url=http://www.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/2014-10-07-brt-flushingjamaica-pw1-presentation.pdf|website=nyc.gov|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority, New York City Department of Transportation|access-date=January 4, 2016|date=October 7, 2014|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304203919/http://www.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/2014-10-07-brt-flushingjamaica-pw1-presentation.pdf|url-status=live}} As part of the conversion, eight stops in the Bronx were eliminated; those retained constituted 85% of passenger usage in the borough. Several limited stops in the Jamaica business district were also eliminated.{{cite web|title=Transit & Bus Committee Meeting June 2015|url=http://web.mta.info/mta/news/books/archive/150622_1000_Transit.pdf|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|access-date=December 14, 2016|date=June 2015|archive-date=December 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220202254/http://web.mta.info/mta/news/books/archive/150622_1000_Transit.pdf|url-status=live}} In addition, Q44 Limited stops at Guy R Brewer Boulevard/165th Street and Archer Avenue, Main Street and Northern Boulevard, Parsons Boulevard and 17th Avenue, Parsons Boulevard and 21st Avenue, and the southbound only stop at Whitestone Expressway and Center Drive were eliminated.{{Cite web |date=July 7, 2014 |title=Q44 Select Bus Service on Main Street Queens Community Board 7 Transportation Committee July 7, 2015 |url=https://www1.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/2015-07-07-brt-flushing-jamaica-cb7-presentation.pdf |access-date=March 18, 2022 |website=nyc.gov |archive-date=March 18, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220318135049/https://www1.nyc.gov/html/brt/downloads/pdf/2015-07-07-brt-flushing-jamaica-cb7-presentation.pdf |url-status=live }}

On November 29, 2015, the Q44 SBS began service, operating 24 hours a day. The Q20A became a full-time route to replace the discontinued late-night-only Q44 local route.{{cite web|title=Effective November 29: Q44 Select Bus Service|url=http://web.mta.info/mta/planning/sbs/Q44SBS.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151112014449/http://web.mta.info/mta/planning/sbs/Q44SBS.html|archive-date=November 12, 2015|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|access-date=November 15, 2015|date=2015|url-status=dead}}

In January 2023, the MTA released a strategic action plan called "Extending Transit's Reach".{{cite web|title=MTA Releases Extending Transit’s Reach, a Landmark Plan to Enhance Access to MTA Facilities|url=https://new.mta.info/press-release/mta-releases-extending-transits-reach-landmark-plan-enhance-access-mta-facilities|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|access-date=April 2, 2024|date=January 11, 2023}} As part of this plan, the Q44 SBS fleet was scheduled to receive bike racks.{{cite web | last=Lazar | first=David | title=MTA to install more bike racks across city | website=Spectrum News NY1 | date=January 11, 2023 | url=https://ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/transit/2023/01/11/mta-to-install-more-bike-racks-across-city | access-date=November 25, 2024}}{{cite web | last=Rahmanan | first=Anna | title=The MTA is installing a bunch of bike racks all across the city | website=Time Out New York | date=January 17, 2023 | url=https://www.timeout.com/newyork/news/the-mta-is-installing-a-bunch-of-bike-racks-in-front-of-buses-011723 | access-date=November 25, 2024}} The bike racks had been installed on the fronts of the buses by 2024.{{cite web |first=Jessica |last=Mathew |first2=Lucille |last2=Songhai |first3=Shanifah |last3=Rieara | title=Bike racks on buses, community signs and Earth Day celebrations | website=amNewYork | date=April 7, 2024 | url=https://www.amny.com/news/ask-the-mta-bike-racks-april-2024/ | access-date=November 25, 2024}}

In December 2019, the MTA released a draft redesign of the Queens bus network.{{cite web|url=https://qns.com/story/2019/12/17/mta-gives-sneak-peek-of-transformative-queens-bus-network-redesign-plan-at-queens-borough-board-meeting/|title=MTA gives 'sneak peek' of transformative Queens bus network redesign plan|last=Acevedo|first=Angélica|date=December 17, 2019|website=QNS.com|access-date=January 1, 2020|archive-date=January 1, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200101011747/https://qns.com/story/2019/12/17/mta-gives-sneak-peek-of-transformative-queens-bus-network-redesign-plan-at-queens-borough-board-meeting/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/news/2019/12/31/mta-unveils-draft-proposal-to-redesign-bus-network-in-queens|title=MTA Unveils Draft Proposal to Redesign Bus Network in Queens|date=December 31, 2019|website=Spectrum News NY1 | New York City|access-date=January 1, 2020|archive-date=January 1, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200101011749/https://www.ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/news/2019/12/31/mta-unveils-draft-proposal-to-redesign-bus-network-in-queens|url-status=live}} As part of the redesign, the Q44 would have become a "high-density" route called the QT44 and would be extended in the Bronx to Fordham Plaza Bus Terminal. The Q20 would have been replaced by a "neighborhood" route, the QT86, which would run from Linden Place in College Point to Cooper Avenue in Glendale, leaving the Main Street corridor at Vleigh Place. The 20th and 14th Avenue corridors would have been served by the QT64 and QT84, respectively.{{cite web|url=https://new.mta.info/document/12706|title=Draft Plan, Queens Bus Network Redesign|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|date=December 2019|access-date=January 1, 2020|archive-date=December 31, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191231075237/https://new.mta.info/document/12706|url-status=live}} The redesign was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City in 2020,{{Cite web|title=Queens bus network redesign remains on hold amid COVID-19 pandemic: MTA|url=https://qns.com/story/2020/06/01/queens-bus-network-redesign-remains-on-hold-amid-covid-19-pandemic-mta/|access-date=2020-07-05|website=QNS.com|language=en-US|archive-date=July 5, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705220043/https://qns.com/story/2020/06/01/queens-bus-network-redesign-remains-on-hold-amid-covid-19-pandemic-mta/|url-status=dead}} and the original draft plan was dropped due to negative feedback.{{cite web | last=Duggan | first=Kevin | title=MTA to release 'totally redone' Queens bus network redesign draft in early 2022 | website=amNewYork | date=December 15, 2021 | url=https://www.amny.com/transit/mta-to-release-totally-redone-queens-bus-network-redesign-draft-in-early-2022/ | access-date=January 21, 2022 | archive-date=January 21, 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220121010646/https://www.amny.com/transit/mta-to-release-totally-redone-queens-bus-network-redesign-draft-in-early-2022/ | url-status=live }}

A revised plan was released in March 2022.{{cite web | last=Duggan | first=Kevin | title=FIRST ON amNY: MTA reveals new Queens bus redesign draft plan | website=amNewYork | date=March 29, 2022 | url=https://www.amny.com/transit/queens-bus-redesign-relaunch/ | access-date=March 29, 2022 | archive-date=March 29, 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220329151616/https://www.amny.com/transit/queens-bus-redesign-relaunch/ | url-status=live }} Under the new plan, the Q44 would have still been extended to Fordham Plaza and the northbound stop for Kissena Boulevard would be removed. The Q20 would still run on Main Street but would no longer have branches; the 20th and 14th Avenue corridors would be taken over by the Q76 and Q31, respectively. The northern part of the Q20 would have taken over the Q15's routing in Beechhurst, while its southern terminus would have been cut back to the Briarwood station.{{cite web|url=https://new.mta.info/document/79636|title=Draft Plan, Queens Bus Network Redesign|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|date=March 2022|access-date=January 1, 2020|archive-date=March 29, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220329153951/https://new.mta.info/document/79636|url-status=live}}

A final bus-redesign plan was released in December 2023.{{cite web | last=Brachfeld | first=Ben | title=MTA unveils final proposal for Queens bus network redesign | website=amNewYork | date=December 12, 2023 | url=https://www.amny.com/new-york/queens/mta-final-proposal-queens-bus-network-redesign/ | access-date=December 13, 2023 | archive-date=December 13, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231213155310/https://www.amny.com/new-york/queens/mta-final-proposal-queens-bus-network-redesign/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Shkurhan | first=Iryna | title=MTA unveils final plan to overhaul Queens bus network for the first time in decades | website=QNS.com | date=December 13, 2023 | url=https://qns.com/2023/12/mta-unveils-final-plan-overhaul-queens-bus-network/ | access-date=December 14, 2023 | archive-date=December 14, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231214010201/https://qns.com/2023/12/mta-unveils-final-plan-overhaul-queens-bus-network/ | url-status=live }} The Q20's branches would be combined into a single route, which would run at all times using the Q20B's existing routing via 14th Avenue; the 20th Avenue routing would be served by the Q76 and a new Q62 route. The Q20 would be diverted to serve the Mitchell-Linden Houses in Flushing, previously served by the Q34 (which would be eliminated). The Q20 would also be diverted upon entering Jamaica, following the Q60 towards Jamaica Avenue, and then heading right on Sutphin Boulevard. The Q44 would remain unchanged.{{cite web|url=https://new.mta.info/document/128476|title=Final Plan, Queens Bus Network Redesign|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|date=Dec 2023|access-date=January 1, 2020|archive-date=December 12, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212204931/https://new.mta.info/document/128476|url-status=live}}

On December 17, 2024, addendums to the final plan were released.{{cite web |last=Russo-Lennon |first=Barbara |date=December 17, 2024 |title=Hold that bus! Queens riders to get more bus service, better rail connections if MTA approves redesign plan |url=https://www.amny.com/news/queens-bus-service-redesign-plan/ |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=amNewYork}}{{cite web |last=Heyward |first=Giulia |date=December 17, 2024 |title=After years of delays, MTA finally moves ahead with Queens bus redesign |url=https://gothamist.com/news/after-years-of-delays-mta-finally-moves-ahead-with-queens-bus-redesign |access-date=December 19, 2024 |website=Gothamist}} Among these, the Q20 had stop changes made, service on Union Street retained, and its branch swapped with the Q76.{{cite web|title=Queens Bus Network Redesign Proposed Final Plan Addendum|url=https://new.mta.info/document/160201|access-date=17 December 2024}} On January 29, 2025, the current plan was approved by the MTA Board,{{cite web|title=MTA approves major changes coming to Queens bus network starting this summer|url=https://www.amny.com/news/major-changes-coming-to-queens-bus-network/|author=Barbara Russo-Lennon|publisher=amNewYork Metro|date=29 January 2025|access-date=29 January 2025}} and the Queens Bus Redesign will go into effect in two different phases during Summer 2025.{{cite web|title=MTA approves major changes coming to Queens bus network starting this summer|url= https://ny1.com/nyc/queens/traffic_and_transit/2025/02/20/queens-bus-network-redesign-to-launch-this-summer--mta-says#:~:text=MTA%20announced%20Thursday.-,Phase%20one%20will%20launch%20on%20Sunday%2C%20June%2029%2C%20and%20phase,faster%20service%20to%20train%20stations.|author=Atlan Hassard|publisher=Spectrum News NY1|date=20 February 2025|access-date=22 February 2025}}

File:MTA Main St Northern Bl 13.jpg

On September 18, 2017, during the morning rush hour, a private tour bus moving at a high speed collided with the back of a New Flyer Xcelsior XD40 Q20A bus turning from Main Street onto Northern Boulevard in Flushing. The bus then plowed into a Kennedy Fried Chicken restaurant at the corner of the intersection. The accident killed 3 people including the tour bus driver, and injured at least 17.{{Cite web|url=https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20170918/flushing/flushing-bus-crash-northern-main-mta|title=3 Dead and 16 Hurt as 2 Buses Crash in Flushing, Officials Say|first1=Aidan|last1=Gardiner|first2=Trevor|last2=Kapp|first3=Katie|last3=Honan|date=September 18, 2017|website=DNAinfo New York|access-date=September 18, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170918233953/https://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20170918/flushing/flushing-bus-crash-northern-main-mta|archive-date=September 18, 2017}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/18/nyregion/bus-crash-queens.html|title=3 Killed and More Than a Dozen Injured in Bus Crash in Queens|last1=Bromwich|first1=Jonah Engel|date=September 18, 2017|work=The New York Times|access-date=September 18, 2017|last2=Harris|first2=Elizabeth A.|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=September 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170918143025/https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/18/nyregion/bus-crash-queens.html|url-status=live}} The private charter bus company had been repeatedly cited for reckless driving. The charter driver was a former MTA bus driver, until he was fired in April 2015 after a crash in his personal automobile in which he pleaded guilty to driving under the influence and leaving the scene of the crash.{{cite news|last1=Ray|first1=Esha|last2=Crane-Newman|first2=Molly|last3=Dimon|first3=Laura|last4=Brown|first4=Stephen Rex|title=Tour bus driver races through Queens intersection and plows into MTA bus, killing three, injuring 17 others|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/queens/killed-16-injured-mta-bus-tour-bus-collide-queens-article-1.3503764|access-date=September 19, 2017|work=New York Daily News|date=September 18, 2017|archive-date=September 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170918223043/http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/queens/killed-16-injured-mta-bus-tour-bus-collide-queens-article-1.3503764|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last1=Rivoli|first1=Dan|last2=Parascandola|first2=Rocco|last3=Rayman|first3=Graham|title=Tour bus driver killed in Queens crash had license suspended after DUI crash that hurt three in 2015|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/queens/tour-bus-driver-killed-queens-crash-2015-dui-conviction-article-1.3504636|work=New York Daily News|date=September 18, 2017|access-date=September 19, 2017|archive-date=September 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170918233419/http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/queens/tour-bus-driver-killed-queens-crash-2015-dui-conviction-article-1.3504636|url-status=live}}

• Q17 (New York City bus), another New York City bus route connecting Flushing to Jamaica
• Q25 and Q34 buses, another New York City bus corridor connecting Flushing to Jamaica
• Q65 (New York City bus), another New York City bus route connecting Flushing to Jamaica
• Q74 (New York City bus), a former New York City bus route that ran on Main Street

{{Clear}}

{{Reflist|25em}}

{{attached KML|display=inline,title}}

{{Commons category multi |Q20 (New York City bus)|Q44 (New York City bus)}}

• [http://web.mta.info/mta/planning/sbs/Q44SBS.html Q44 Select Bus Service] − mta.info
• [http://www.nyc.gov/html/brt/html/routes/flushng_jamaica.shtml The Bronx-Flushing-Jamaica Select Bus Service] − NYCDOT

{{Queens bus routes}}

{{Select Bus Service}}

Q020

020

Q044

Q44