By Serena Solomon and Amy Zimmer
DNAinfo Staff
MANHATTAN — The Port Authority Bus Terminal was partially evacuated Monday afternoon after a fire broke out in a trash compactor during the evening rush, forcing people onto the streets, fire officials said.
More than 60 firefighters raced to the transportation hub on Eighth Avenue and West 41st Street at 4:25 p.m., the FDNY said.
"Big fire at Port Authority, smoke everywhere in one block radius," tweeted Britrock.
Port Authority officials said that three floors of the four story building on the north side of 41st Street were evacuated at 5 p.m.
The building remained partially closed 45 minutes later, a Port Authority spokeswoman said, but buses were still operating.
Riders were able to gain access to the terminal through the PA's building south of 41st Street.
"People still entering Port Authority from Eight Avenue entrance, so whatever is causing the smoke obviously isn't life threatening... Yet," tweeted Peter Shankman.
Megabus, which recently was allowed to start picking up passengers on 41st Street, between the terminal's two buildings, had to relocate temporarily to 10th Avenue and 40th Street, according to an attendant directing passengers.
No injuries were immediately reported.
