New York City Council
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
Sep 10, 2024
·
10:30 AM
3 hr
Summary
A hearing on the NYC Ferry system's operations, finances, and potential expansions.
Discussions focused on recent improvements, including expanded discount programs and technological upgrades, financial sustainability efforts, equity and accessibility concerns, and proposals for system expansion to areas like Coney Island and City Island.
The hearing also addressed the distribution of ferry landings across boroughs and connectivity with other transit options.
Features testimony from the Economic Development Corporation (EDC), Department of Transportation (DOT), and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Amanda Farías introduces the hearing on NYC Ferry's finances and operations
Council Member Amanda Farías, the majority leader of the New York City Council and chair of the Committee on Economic Development, introduces a joint hearing to examine NYC Ferry's finances …
0:01:02
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138 sec
Overview of NYC Ferry system and recent changes
Council Member Amanda Farías provides an overview of the current NYC Ferry system, highlighting recent changes and areas of interest for the hearing. She discusses the system's routes, ridership patterns, …
0:03:21
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39 sec
Introduction of proposed legislation related to NYC Ferry expansion
Council Member Amanda Farías introduces three pieces of legislation related to the NYC Ferry system that will be discussed during the hearing. These proposals aim to expand ferry services to …
0:04:01
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37 sec
Amanda Farías concludes her remarks and acknowledges committee staff
Council Member Amanda Farías concludes her opening remarks by acknowledging the committee staff and other council members present. She then turns the floor over to Chair Brooks Powers. - Farías …
0:04:38
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33 sec
Chair Brooks Powers introduces herself and provides NYC Ferry system overview
Chair Selvena Brooks Powers introduces herself and provides an overview of the NYC Ferry system, including its history, current state, and the legislation to be discussed during the hearing. - …
0:05:11
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132 sec
Financial concerns and criticisms of the NYC Ferry system
Chair Selvena Brooks Powers addresses the financial concerns and criticisms surrounding the NYC Ferry system, highlighting issues with subsidies and financial management. - A 2019 report by the Citizens Budget …
0:07:24
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73 sec
Ridership demographics, equity concerns, and recent improvements in NYC Ferry
Chair Selvena Brooks Powers discusses the ridership demographics and equity concerns of the NYC Ferry system, as well as recent improvements in diverse ridership based on EDC's 2023 ferry survey. …
0:08:38
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78 sec
Chair Brooks Powers concludes remarks and outlines hearing expectations
Chair Selvena Brooks Powers concludes her opening remarks by outlining her expectations for the hearing and acknowledging her staff and committee staff for their hard work. - Brooks Powers expresses …
0:09:56
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56 sec
Introduction and overview of NYC Ferry system
James Wong, Executive Vice President of NYC Economic Development Corporation and Executive Director of NYC Ferry, provides an introduction to the NYC Ferry system. He outlines EDC's mission, the scale …
0:11:34
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128 sec
Expansion of discount programs and community outreach efforts
NYC Ferry has implemented and expanded discount programs to improve accessibility and equity, with a focus on seniors, people with disabilities, low-income residents, and students. The agency has also developed …
0:13:43
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4 min
Operational improvements and new agreement with Hornblower
NYC Ferry has implemented several operational improvements and entered into a new agreement with Hornblower to enhance the system's efficiency and rider experience. These changes aim to make the ferry …
0:18:10
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96 sec
Revenue generation strategies and partnerships
NYC Ferry has implemented creative revenue generation strategies to improve the system's financial stability. These efforts include partnerships, advertising, and seeking sponsorship opportunities. - Launched partnerships with companies like Spotify …
0:19:46
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94 sec
Financial sustainability and new fare policy
NYC Ferry has focused on improving its long-term financial sustainability by reducing per-passenger subsidies and implementing a new fare policy. These efforts aim to balance accessibility with fiscal responsibility. - …
0:21:21
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89 sec
Employment and career development in the maritime industry
NYC Ferry is committed to driving employment in the maritime industry and serving as a critical component of the city's maritime employment pipeline. The agency focuses on diversity, career growth, …
0:22:50
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63 sec
Ridership trends and recent records
NYC Ferry has experienced significant growth in ridership, setting new records and introducing successful seasonal services. The system has seen increased popularity, particularly during peak seasons. - Achieved over 7 …
0:23:54
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73 sec
Response to proposed legislation and challenges with potential new routes
James Wong addresses several pieces of proposed legislation regarding potential expansions of the NYC Ferry system. He outlines the challenges and limitations associated with these proposals, explaining why certain expansions …
0:25:07
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3 min
Overview of NYC Ferry fleet and vessel count
Council Member Amanda Farías inquires about the NYC Ferry fleet, confirming that EDC owns 38 purpose-built vessels. The discussion covers the total number of vessels and their ownership status. - …
0:28:47
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45 sec
Vessel maintenance and operational status of NYC Ferry fleet
EDC officials discuss the daily operational status and maintenance of the NYC Ferry fleet. They explain that while some vessels undergo maintenance or training on any given day, there are …
0:29:33
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45 sec
Passenger capacity and ridership trends of NYC Ferry
EDC officials provide information on the passenger capacity of different vessel classes and discuss recent ridership trends for NYC Ferry. - Subchapter T vessels hold 150 passengers, while Subchapter K …
0:30:19
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102 sec
Customer feedback and complaint handling for NYC Ferry
EDC officials discuss the process of collecting and addressing customer feedback for NYC Ferry, including the annual survey and complaint handling procedures. - Annual surveys allow customers to leave comments, …
0:32:02
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173 sec
Ferry fleet purchase and expansion considerations
EDC officials discuss the current status of the NYC Ferry fleet and considerations for potential expansion or changes to the fleet. - There are no current plans for additional vessel …
0:34:55
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3 min
Ridership statistics for seasonal and express ferry services
EDC officials provide ridership statistics for seasonal ferry services and discuss the success of express services. - The Rockaway Reserve service sold 37,000 tickets from Memorial Day to Labor Day, …
0:38:28
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113 sec
New operating contract with Hornblower and revenue-sharing agreements
EDC officials discuss the new operating contract with Hornblower, including its impact on NYC Ferry operations and new revenue-sharing agreements. - Hornblower's Chapter 11 restructuring had no impact on NYC …
0:40:21
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4 min
Technological improvements and integration with other public transportation
EDC officials discuss technological improvements being implemented for NYC Ferry and efforts to integrate the service with other public transportation options. - New features include onboard WiFi and real-time information …
0:45:21
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160 sec
New fare structure and discount programs for NYC Ferry
EDC officials discuss the impact of the new fare structure implemented in 2022 and the expansion of discount programs for various groups of riders. - Ridership has increased since the …
0:48:01
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7 min
Financial impact of new fare structure and subsidies for NYC Ferry
EDC officials discuss the financial performance of NYC Ferry, including the impact of the new fare structure and the subsidy levels for the service. - The recent fare change's impact …
0:55:26
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152 sec
Environmental sustainability of NYC Ferry vessels
EDC officials discuss the environmental sustainability features of NYC Ferry vessels, including their construction and engine technologies. - Ferries are built with lightweight aluminum and designed with a hull form …
0:58:00
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168 sec
Accessibility features and language support for NYC Ferry
EDC officials discuss the accessibility features of NYC Ferry for persons with disabilities and the language support provided across the system. - All NYC Ferry vessels and landings are built …
1:00:54
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3 min
Senior discount options and ticketing system improvements for NYC Ferry
EDC officials discuss the current limitations and planned improvements for senior discount options and the ticketing system on NYC Ferry. - Current ticket machines at landings cannot verify eligibility for …
1:03:56
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125 sec
Potential expansion of ferry service along the Rockaway Peninsula
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about the possibility of expanding ferry service along the Rockaway Peninsula, which was previously deemed not possible due to the MTA South Channel Subway Bridge. James …
1:06:11
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3 min
Exploring innovative technologies for ferry expansion in the Rockaways
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about potential technologies or improvements that could make ferry expansion feasible in the Eastern Rockaway communities. James Wong from EDC discusses the possibilities and limitations of …
1:09:23
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101 sec
Evaluation criteria for ferry expansion projects
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about the criteria used to evaluate potential ferry expansion projects. James Wong from EDC explains the various factors considered in their assessment process. - EDC looks …
1:11:06
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93 sec
Analysis of ferry landing subsidies and ridership
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about ferry landing subsidies, particularly which landing receives the largest subsidy. James Wong from EDC explains the complexities of analyzing subsidies and ridership. - EDC tracks …
1:12:41
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139 sec
Coney Island ferry project history and challenges
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about the feasibility of expanding ferry service to Coney Island. James Wong from EDC explains the history and challenges of the Coney Island ferry project. - …
1:15:00
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123 sec
Willets Point ferry service study as part of redevelopment
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about the possibility of including ferry service studies in future EDC project developments, particularly for Willets Point. James Wong from EDC explains their approach to studying …
1:17:19
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45 sec
Recent fare increases and pricing structure for NYC Ferry
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about the recent fare increases for NYC Ferry and the rationale behind determining fare prices. James Wong from EDC explains the decision-making process and goals behind …
1:18:15
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123 sec
Planned upgrades and improvements to NYC Ferry service
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about the planned upgrades and improvements to NYC Ferry service mentioned by EDC's President Andrew Kimbell. James Wong from EDC outlines the upcoming enhancements. - Upgrades …
1:20:22
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81 sec
Impact of fare increases on ridership and revenue
Council Member Brooks-Powers questions the timing of fare increases given economic pressures and asks about the anticipated revenue impact. EDC representatives explain their approach and expected outcomes. - EDC takes …
1:21:58
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153 sec
DOT's involvement in ferry expansion studies
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about the Department of Transportation's (DOT) involvement in ferry expansion studies. Rick Rodriguez from DOT responds to the questions. - DOT does not have any active …
1:24:32
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69 sec
Ridership trends for premium-priced ferry services
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about ridership trends for premium-priced ferry services. EDC representatives James Wong and Franny Civitano provide insights on the performance of these services. - There was an …
1:25:42
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59 sec
DOT's potential role in operating additional ferries
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about the Department of Transportation's (DOT) potential interest in expanding their role to operate additional ferries throughout New York City. Rick Rodriguez from DOT responds to …
1:26:41
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23 sec
Inquiry about ferry service study for Downtown Far Rockaway rezoning
Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about whether a ferry service study was ever connected to the Downtown Far Rockaway rezoning project. EDC representative Michelle Lamberti responds to the question. - Michelle …
1:27:05
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52 sec
Council member advocates for expanding ferry access to Red Hook students
Council Member Avilés emphasizes the importance of expanding ferry access for students, particularly those from Red Hook. She congratulates the committee on recent legislation extending high school student discounts but …
1:27:59
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146 sec
Update on Homeport II ferry project progress
James Wong provides an update on the Homeport II project, explaining the current status and future plans for the facility. - The project is divided into in-water and upland components …
1:30:26
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72 sec
Vessel construction, maintenance, and repair locations for NYC Ferry
James Wong explains the locations for vessel construction, maintenance, and repair for the NYC Ferry system. - All 38 vessels were built in shipyards in the Gulf region between 2015 …
1:31:38
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106 sec
Council member highlights ferry service issues at Brooklyn Army Terminal
Council Member Avilés shares her personal experience with ferry service issues at Brooklyn Army Terminal, highlighting problems with overcrowding and long wait times. - Waited 3 hours and saw 5 …
1:33:32
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128 sec
Council member calls for shade structures at ferry landings
Council Member Avilés emphasizes the need for shade structures at ferry landings to protect passengers from the heat while waiting. - Highlights the lack of shade at current ferry landings …
1:35:40
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32 sec
Council Member Narcisse inquires about Canarsie ferry service study
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse questions James Wong from the NYC Economic Development Corporation about a study conducted for potential ferry service to the Canarsie area. Wong acknowledges the community's interest …
1:36:35
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3 min
Council Member Ariola raises concerns about Rockaway Peninsula ferry service
Council Member Joann Ariola discusses various issues and concerns regarding the ferry service to the Rockaway Peninsula with James Wong from the NYC Economic Development Corporation. Topics include the need …
1:40:00
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3 min
Council Member Brannan discusses ferry infrastructure and accessibility challenges
Council Member Justin L. Brannan addresses the challenges of ferry infrastructure and accessibility in NYC. He emphasizes the importance of connecting ferries to existing transportation networks and the difficulties in …
1:44:01
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4 min
Discussion on Coney Island ferry project challenges and costs
Council Member Brannan questions the EDC about the challenges and costs associated with the proposed Coney Island ferry project. He expresses skepticism about the $250 million cost estimate for the …
1:48:03
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88 sec
Inquiry about Environmental Bond Act funding for ferry projects
Council Member Brannan inquires about the potential use of the Environmental Bond Act funds for future ferry projects. The act authorizes New York State to spend about $4 billion on …
1:49:31
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40 sec
Council Member Brannan emphasizes the importance of waterfront transit in NYC
Council Member Brannan concludes by emphasizing the importance of waterfront transit in New York City. He highlights the success of the Bay Ridge ferry and advocates for further investment in …
1:50:11
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120 sec
Council Member Restler commends legislation for student ferry discounts
Council Member Lincoln Restler opens by commending the majority leader's legislation to make ferry commutes more affordable for students. He expresses his personal opinion that student commutes should be free, …
1:52:19
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24 sec
Council Member Restler highlights ferry landings in the 33rd district
Council Member Restler proudly declares the 33rd district as the capital of the ferry system in New York City. He emphasizes the district's significant presence in the ferry network and …
1:52:44
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28 sec
Discussion on privately owned ferry pier in Greenpoint and potential public ownership
Council Member Restler raises concerns about the privately owned ferry pier in Greenpoint, discussing its frequent closures and the need for public ownership. James Wong from EDC responds to these …
1:53:12
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3 min
Concerns and discussion about reduction in evening ferry services
Council Member Restler expresses concerns about reduced evening ferry services on the East River route and its impact on commuters. James Wong from EDC responds by explaining the trade-offs in …
1:56:48
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113 sec
Discussion on 34th Street bus route elimination and closing remarks
James Wong explains the reasons for eliminating the 34th Street shuttle bus, citing low ridership and high subsidies. Council Member Restler responds by emphasizing the importance of reliable ferry service …
1:58:41
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96 sec
Disparity in ferry landing distribution across NYC boroughs
Council Member Althea Stevens questions the EDC about the disparity in ferry landing distribution across NYC boroughs. She highlights the significant imbalance, with Manhattan having 7 landings, Brooklyn at least …
2:00:19
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80 sec
Racial demographics of NYC Ferry ridership
Council Member Stevens inquires about the racial demographics of NYC Ferry riders. James Wong from EDC provides data on non-white ridership and discusses diversity trends on specific routes. - EDC …
2:01:39
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50 sec
Lack of ferry access in the West Bronx and its impact
Council Member Stevens expresses frustration over the lack of ferry access in her West Bronx district and its impact on residents. She highlights the limited transportation options and the potential …
2:02:29
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105 sec
Debate on equity and diversity in ferry landing locations
Council Member Stevens and EDC representatives engage in a debate about equity and diversity in ferry landing locations. Stevens emphasizes the need for action and consideration of underserved areas like …
2:04:14
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125 sec
Testimony by Domenic Recchia, Former Council Member and Finance Chairman of NYC City Council, on Ferry Service to Coney Island
Domenic Recchia, a former NYC Council Member, testified about the need for a ferry service to Coney Island and the lack of a proper feasibility study despite previous agreements. He …
2:08:59
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3 min
Council member seeks clarification on historical context of Coney Island ferry study
Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers acknowledges the historical context provided by former Council Member Domenic Recchia regarding the Coney Island ferry study. She mentions her visit to the area and expresses …
2:12:20
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31 sec
Discussion on the preferred location for Coney Island ferry landing
Former Council Member Domenic Recchia emphasizes that the ferry landing must be on the ocean side of Coney Island, citing historical precedent and past issues with alternative locations. Council Member …
2:12:50
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67 sec
Testimony by Robert Cornegy, Former Council Member of NYC City Council, on NYC Ferry Service and Coney Island Ferry Stop
Robert Cornegy, a former NYC Council Member, testifies in support of expanding NYC Ferry service to Coney Island. He highlights the growing popularity of the ferry system, its accessibility, and …
2:14:01
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148 sec
Testimony by Sean Campion, Director of Housing and Economic Development Studies at Citizens Budget Commission
Sean Campion from the Citizens Budget Commission presents an analysis of the NYC Ferry system's finances and the impact of the Ferry Forward plan. While acknowledging improvements in reducing subsidies …
2:16:37
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135 sec
Testimony by Tyler Taba, Director of Resilience at Waterfront Alliance, on NYC Ferry System
Tyler Taba, Director of Resilience at Waterfront Alliance, testified in support of the NYC Ferry system, focusing on their "5 E's" for success: expansion, economics, electrification, emergency services, and equity. …
2:19:00
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140 sec
Testimony by Linda Baran, President of Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, on NYC Ferry System Expansion
Linda Baran, President of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, testified about the need for expanding the NYC Ferry System to better serve Staten Island. She emphasized the borough's limited …
2:22:39
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129 sec
Council Member Farías recalls past experiences with Staten Island ferries
Council Member Amanda Farías briefly discusses her past experiences traveling to Staten Island and using ferries that could transport cars.
2:24:49
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14 sec
Testimony by Rose Uscianowski, Staten Island Organizer from Transportation Alternatives
Rose Uscianowski, a Staten Island resident and organizer for Transportation Alternatives, argues that the NYC Ferry system primarily serves wealthy areas and fails to address the transit needs of underserved …
2:25:06
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123 sec
Testimony by Fred Rodriguez, Maritime Historian, on NYC Ferry System History and Expansion
Fred Rodriguez, a maritime historian and former Staten Island ferry veteran, provides historical context for NYC's ferry system and advocates for its expansion. He emphasizes the city's rich ferry-building heritage …
2:27:21
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122 sec
Testimony by Jack Epter, Member of Edgemere Community Civic Association, on NYC Ferry System
Jack Epter, a long-time Rockaway resident and sailor, provided testimony on various aspects of the NYC Ferry system, focusing on route specifics, wake concerns, and the need for expanded service …
2:30:14
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134 sec
Council member inquires about transportation challenges in Rockaway Peninsula
Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers engages in a discussion with Jack Epter about the transportation challenges in the Rockaway Peninsula, particularly focusing on the upcoming 16-week subway shutdown and the current …
2:32:32
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3 min
Council member concludes discussion with appreciation
Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers briefly concludes the discussion by acknowledging Jack Epter's testimony. - The council member thanks Epter for his testimony - This marks the end of their interaction …
2:36:24
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1 sec
Testimony by John Doyle, Member of City Island Rising, on NYC Ferry Expansion to City Island
John Doyle, representing City Island Rising, advocated for expanding the NYC Ferry route to include a City Island terminal. He highlighted the benefits of such an expansion, including reduced traffic …
2:36:28
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120 sec
Testimony by Marie Mirville-Shahzada, Executive Director of Alfadila Community Services
Marie Mirville-Shahzada, Executive Director of Alfadila Community Services, advocates for a ferry service in Coney Island, highlighting the area's isolation and transportation challenges. She argues that a ferry would transform …
2:38:35
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96 sec
Testimony by Anthony Batista, Executive Director of Coney Island Anti Violence Collaborative on Coney Island Ferry Service
Anthony Batista, Executive Director of Coney Island Anti Violence Collaborative, testifies about the urgent need for a ferry service in Coney Island. He highlights the long-standing promise of a ferry, …
2:40:14
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122 sec
Council Member Farías emphasizes the importance of year-round ferry service
Council Member Amanda Farías addresses the importance of ferry service for year-round residents in areas like Coney Island, City Island, and Rockaway. She emphasizes that these areas are not just …
2:42:19
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52 sec
Council Member Farías addresses hearing procedures and rules
Council Member Amanda Farías shifts to addressing procedural matters for the hearing, including calling for the last speakers and reminding participants about the rules for recording and testimony. - Farías …
2:43:30
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82 sec
Testimony by Michael Harwood, Member of Saint George Civic Association
Michael Harwood, a resident of Staten Island and member of the Saint George Civic Association, expresses concerns about the NYC Ferry service to Staten Island. He fears the service may …
2:44:52
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142 sec
Testimony by Alex Stein, Member of the Public
Alex Stein, a member of the public from Dallas, Texas, attempted to give testimony about 9/11 conspiracy theories related to the World Trade Center buildings and the Port Authority. His …
2:47:17
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89 sec
Testimony by Wayne Richards, Member of Public on NYC Ferry and Infrastructure
Wayne Richards presents a design concept for infrastructure development in the Rockaways, emphasizing the need for water taxi service along the peninsula. He argues that the current transportation options are …
2:49:16
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4 min
Council member inquires about ferry's impact on local businesses
Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers engages in a Q&A session with Wayne Richards about the economic impact of the ferry service on local businesses in the Rockaway Peninsula. - Richards explains …
2:53:35
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91 sec
Testimony by Glenn Bolofsky, Member of the Public, on Transportation Alternatives and Electronic Parking Signs
Glenn Bolofsky testifies in support of the NYC Ferry system and other transportation alternatives, while also proposing the use of electronic parking signs in congested areas to generate revenue for …
2:57:00
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91 sec
