Hayden Clarkin @thetransitguy.com · Nov 11 I’m really excited about the NYC Ferry route optimization plan announced today, which will go into effect next month. The new network (1st image) will provide direct connections from Queens to the Bronx and Staten Island to Brooklyn, and it will help alleviate crowding on the E. River. Thoughts?
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Looks great! I always tell people visiting (esp in the summer) that the ferries are one of the hidden gems of the city - for $4 you get the experience of a $50 tour (plus many more options for where to start/stop!) I do wish they were a little faster though...
I like that SI gets access to Brooklyn and all but I don’t see it taking loads off of the subway. It definitely fill in a missing middle where the trains don’t quite reach. There’s an opportunity to add City Island and maybe Port Morris in the Bronx for instance.
Took the ferry from mid town to St George's. Would recommend it to anyone.
Queens plaza alone sees comparable yearly ridership to the entire nyc ferry system. I do not believe it's going to have any impact on e train crowding. (Thankfully, the F to M swap will!)
The ferry is delightful. It is also poor policy. The hundreds of millions in subsidies could be better spent on some combination of better service, cheaper service, and an expansion of Fair Fares.