On Wednesday, February 15th, the NYC Ferry team met with OANA, the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association. The association “[Promotes] economic growth, quality of life, and cultural health in the neighborhood. OANA is a 501c3 non-profit focusing on the part of Astoria bounded by Ditmars Boulevard and 36th Avenue, between the East River and 21st Street.” Therefore, as OANA focuses on the future of Astoria’s communities, it is important for our team to meet with the board, as well as local Council Member, Costa Constantinides.
Historic Ferries Coming Back
With the history of the old ferry line running from Astoria to 86th Street in Manhattan, established by Hallett’s Cove resident Stephen Halsey in 1839 and operated by him until 1860. With this rich history, the NYC Ferry team is excited to be connecting the two boroughs by ferry again in 2017! A greatly appreciated mode of transportation in Halsey’s time, Astoria residents today are excited about the new ferry system connecting the currently transit-starved neighborhood to Manhattan and Brooklyn in a quick and easy way!
NYC Ferry and Marine Life
The NYC Ferry team held a presentation for the meeting’s attendees, where a detailed vessel construction update was given to celebrate the completion of vessel number one. The presenting team members also explained the NYC Ferry’s fuel efficient engines made by Baudouin: the engines have a closed-loop system and the low-wake catamaran ferry design to avoid disruption by large waves being made in the harbor affecting the marine life in Hallets Cove. Furthermore, the discussion continued by highlighting the 150+ well-paying technical jobs with Hornblower and the upcoming job fair with NYCEDC and SBS.
OANA’s Projects and Renovations
Local Council Member, Costa Constantinides was there to give updates on the Hallets Cove Playground renovation (2018), the Eco Dock kayak launch near the new Astoria ferry landing (late 2018/early 2019). Next, there was an update given by Richard Khuzami, the president of OANA, focused on the promenade seawall in front of Astoria Houses, which is going to begin construction shortly as part of the Mayor’s funds to strengthen seawalls city-wide after Hurricane Sandy.