Free bus for Rikers visits

staff at a cost of $800,000 a year, will go straight to the jail complex. Currently, many of the 250,000 visitors each year rely on the Q100 bus accessible only in Queens.

Jail brass say there will eventually be six buses in use, to serve an estimated 900 visitors each day. The full service will cost an estimated $1.6 million a year.

“These buses are not only going to make visiting Rikers more convenient, they are going to improve the lives of both staff and people in custody,” said Correction Commissioner Cynthia Brann.

Inmate advocates were cautiously optimistic.

“I am delighted to hear about the new visit buses the city has added,” said Grace Price, a member of the Jails Action Coalition.

Price questioned whether riders would be searched by jail staff.