AGENCY TESTIMONY
Response to proposed legislation and challenges with potential new routes
0:25:07
·
3 min
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 are not currently feasible.
- No current plans for system expansion, but EDC is committed to studying potential landing at Willets Point
- Expansion further into the Rockaways is not viable due to infrastructure limitations and safety concerns
- Direct ferry to Coney Island faces significant challenges due to navigational issues and high projected costs
- Ferry service to LaGuardia Airport was not recommended due to low projected ridership and ineffectiveness as a transportation option
James Wong
0:25:07
We have been focused on shoring up the NYC Ferry system by increasing ridership, driving fare box revenue, making our operations more efficient and finding ways to ensure fiscal sustainability.
0:25:17
While we do not currently have plans for expansion, we greatly appreciate the enthusiasm and interest in the system and we continue to look for ways to optimize our system, such as their improved schedules and route configurations to efficiently and quickly get riders to their destinations.
0:25:32
With respect to introduction 321 and the proposed expansion of ferry service to Willett's point, as I just outlined, NYC ferry does not have any current plans for system expansion.
0:25:41
However, as part of the comprehensive Willis Point development process, EDC committed to the Queensboro president that we would undertake a study to evaluate a potential landing at this site.
0:25:50
With respect to introduction 864 and its proposed study and report on the expansion of ferry service along the Rockaway Peninsula.
0:25:58
EDC has previously evaluated the expansion of various service to this area and has determined that system expansion further into the Rockaways was not viable for NYC ferry.
0:26:07
NYC ferry vessels are unable to safely and reliably passed under the a train bridge that crosses Broad Channel as there is insufficient clearance.
0:26:17
While the swing bridge could open for meeting traffic, this would significantly disrupt subway service to the rockaways.
0:26:23
As for alternative ferry sites on the ocean side of the peninsula, Such locations cannot be safely utilized as they are extremely challenging to water depths, high winds, and ocean swells.
0:26:33
With respect to preconceived legislation 2438, seeking a study and report on the feasibility of a direct ferry to Kony Island, EDC conducted significant work related to Kony Island ferry service.
0:26:44
In 2019, we began work to launch a Kony Island route, but in late 2021, EDC paused work on its Kony Island Creek Ferry Landing due to navigational and safety concerns related to sand buildup in the creek.
0:26:56
In 2022, we conducted a feasibility analysis to assess other landing options to serve Kony Island.
0:27:02
For any proposed ferry landings on the ocean facing shoreline, there are serious concerns that expose that exposure to ocean swells and strong southeast winds would make any service unreliable as a landing there would be inoperable under many weather and ocean conditions.
0:27:16
Although protection could be provided by an offshore wave attenuating structure, such a project had projected capital costs that were estimated to be as high as $250,000,000.
0:27:27
After an exhaustive look at a different location, at different location options for Oconee Island Ferry Landing, we could not find an operationally reliable or financially responsible location to deliver the service.
0:27:40
Finally, with respect to Resolution 400 proposing ferry service to LaGuardia Airport, EDC in the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey both previously studied the viability of a ferry landing at the airport.
0:27:50
In 2023, the port authority study to which EDC and NYC ferry contributed data, did not recommend ferry option did not recommend the ferry option service at Bowery Bay or Flushing Bay as the study concluded that both sites would attract a very low level of ridership were not an effective means of transportation to the airport.
0:28:10
EDC has previously stated that any considerations for airport service would need to be considered at market rate costs, but even then the finances are unlikely to pencil out.
0:28:21
In closing, we are very proud of our work to implement Mayor Adams NYC Ferry Forward Plan and are excited to continue to provide a safe, affordable, and accessible transit system to New Yorkers.
0:28:31
We welcome the opportunity to work with the council and all partners to further advance the accessibility fiscal sustainability of the system.
0:28:37
Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you today.
0:28:39
My team and I are happy to answer any questions you may have related to NYC Ferry.