5 Things You Should Know About the NYC Ferry Project
PreviousTraveling around New York City is no easy feat. Between the overcrowded subways and the long commutes that require taking multiple trains or buses to get to your destination; it’s undeniable that New Yorkers—and those visiting the city—are in need of an alternative that will take the hustle and bustle out of commuting. The NYC Ferry Service, which is slated to launch in 2017, will change the face of transportation in NYC. Here are five things that you should know about the project.
You’ll be able to catch the ferry for the same price as the subway.
Ferries are often known for being pricey, however, you can take advantage of the NYC Ferry Service without breaking the bank. The affordable service will allow you to hop on the ferry for the same price as the train or bus—$2.75.
The NYC Ferry Service will focus on NYC communities that are underserved in regards to transit options.
If you reside in areas like Soundview or the Rockaways—places that have been deemed transportation deserts—the daily commute to different parts of New York City can be taxing. The NYC Ferry Service was designed to serve communities that have limited transit options. According to Mayor Bill de Blasio, who revealed details about the project back in March, the new mode of transportation will help bridge the opportunity gap for several New Yorkers. “There are many communities that are underserved by mass transit,” he said during a press conference. “We know that providing more and better transit options is also a way of addressing that opportunity gap.” There will be five ferry routes: Rockaway, South Brooklyn, Astoria, Lower East Side, and Soundview.
NYC Ferry will integrate the East River Ferry service.
The NYC Ferry service will merge the East River Ferry into its operations. The East River Ferry currently has 4,000 passengers that ride daily. All of them will see a significant decrease in the amount of money that they pay per ride. When the NYC Ferry Service is implemented the $4 East River Ferry fare will drop to $2.75. The new project is expected to have nearly 4.6 million passenger trips each year. East River Ferry stops will be incorporated into the different routes.
The amenities will be a game-changer for mass transit.
Looking to get some work done while cruising on the ferry? WiFi is just one of the many amenities that the NYC Ferry service will provide. The vessels also come equipped with onboard dining options, a spacious area to store strollers and bicycles, and accessible washrooms. Catering to individuals from all walks of life, all of the boarding stations and vessels are accessible for those with disabilities. Each vessel will feature low emission engines and “low wake” technology which makes for a greener commute.
The Timeline
The NYC Ferry Service will be rolled out in two phases. The Astoria, South Brooklyn, and Rockaway routes are slated to start running in 2017. The Soundview and Lower East Side routes will begin service in 2018. There will be 21 landings built throughout NYC. Check out the route map below to see if the ferry will come to your town.
Learn more about the NYC Ferry project here.
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