Local lawmakers not backing down when it comes to expanding NYC ferry service

News 12 previously reported elected officials calling on the mayor's office in a letter to reinstate ferry service from Staten Island to Brooklyn. Now, they've written another letter.

Julia Burns

Dec 3, 2024, 12:00 PM

Updated 8 days ago

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Local lawmakers are yet again calling on the New York City mayor's office to reinstate ferry service from Staten Island to South Brooklyn.
News 12 previously reported elected officials calling on the mayor's office in a letter to reinstate ferry service from Staten Island to Brooklyn.
Now, they've written another letter.
News 12 spoke with Brooklyn residents like William Denaro, who say they think it would give commuters more options.
“Trains, buses, the ferry is just another thing to connect all the boroughs. Especially Staten Island the only thing they have to connect is the bridge the only thing that really comes over there is the buses so adding that is a plus," said Denaro.
News 12 spoke with Councilman Justin Brannan, one of the elected officials advocating for this service. Brannan says now more than ever is the time to do it.
“We have untapped resources in our waterfront that’s just an easier way to get around. I think we need to be using them more. Especially now that we’re talking about easing congestion and give folks more alternatives and options of public transportation. Expanding the NYC ferry system to connect Staten Island and Brooklyn is just a no brainer," said Brannan.
Councilman Brannan says he wants to see the New York City Economic Development Administration do a cost estimate on reinstating the service.
News 12 reached out to the mayor's office, and a spokesperson said in a statement:
“We welcome the Councilmember's advocacy and enthusiasm for new connections on NYC Ferry for their constituents. NYC Ferry serves an important role as a transit option and is a key part of communities across New York City. While we are not actively pursuing expansion options and new route changes, our continued focus is on making our current service more accessible, equitable, and financially sustainable through the Adams administration’s Ferry Forward plan.”