New Yorkers may soon have a fresh way to travel between Brooklyn and Staten Island, thanks to a new proposal from the NYC Ferry system.
On Monday, officials proposed several new routes, including one that would link Bay Ridge in Brooklyn to St. George Terminal on Staten Island, where the Staten Island Ferry docks.
This potential ferry route harkens back to a time when ferries connecting the two boroughs were commonplace decades ago.
The NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), which oversees the NYC Ferry service, has based its proposal on extensive ridership feedback, data analysis, operational reviews, and the evaluation of existing infrastructure.
This proposed route overhaul is set to be the first significant change to the NYC Ferry operation since its inception eight years ago.
James Wong, executive director of NYC Ferry, stated, “For the first time since our launch in 2017, NYC Ferry is taking a fresh, holistic look across the system and proposing a comprehensive reconfiguration of routes to improve rider experience, fix known issues, and ensure NYC Ferry is a mainstay on our waterways for years to come.”
Before any alterations are implemented, NYCEDC will seek feedback from riders throughout the summer.
They plan to distribute a survey to all users of the ferry system, inviting insights from regular commuters as well as those who have yet to experience the service.
A proposed map illustrating these changes indicates what the new Brooklyn to Staten Island route would look like.
Additionally, the proposal includes other potential changes, such as a direct ride to Midtown for the South Brooklyn route, splitting the East River service into two distinct routes, and merging the Soundview and Rockaway routes.
Wong emphasized that this map is grounded in years of rider feedback and operational assessments, establishing a solid foundation for ongoing input from ferry users.
The push for the Brooklyn to Staten Island ferry route has been backed by advocacy from City Council Members Kamillah Hanks and Justin Brannan.
Hanks remarked, “Seeing Staten Island and Brooklyn finally linked by ferry is a big win — and a clear example of what’s possible when we put people first in our transit planning.
We aren’t there yet, just as we have asked you in the past, I need you islanders and Brooklynites to push for this needed service.”
This proposal emerges in the wake of Canarsie residents and local officials rallying on May 25 for a ferry connection that would alleviate the isolation many feel in their neighborhood, which has been described as a “transportation desert.”
At that time, a City Hall spokesperson stated there were “no plans” for a new ferry line; however, NYCEDC officials clarified that the proposed changes pertain to modifications of existing routes rather than the introduction of new ones.
In response, Narcisse expressed her optimism regarding Canarsie’s potential inclusion in future ferry expansions.
She asserted, “As someone who has long advocated for a ferry route in Canarsie, I understand that the proposed changes to the current ferry routes involve adjustments to existing services.
While these changes are important, I remain very optimistic that Canarsie will be included in expansions as the NYC Ferry system continues to grow in the near future.
It is crucial that any changes prioritize accessibility and meet the needs of underserved communities like Canarsie.
I believe adding a ferry stop at Canarsie Pier would be a major positive for the people, the area, and surrounding neighborhoods.
Residents of District 46 need and deserve more transportation options, and I will keep fighting for that.”
Final decisions on ferry route changes are expected to be announced in September, with the new service slated to begin this winter, according to NYCEDC officials.
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