City Island residents are hopeful that the upcoming $15 congestion pricing toll in New York City will lead to the introduction of a new transportation option in their Bronx enclave. Many islanders are advocating for a ferry stop as a cheaper and quicker way to travel to other parts of the city, especially with the toll set to begin in June. Supporters believe that ferry service would not only make commuting easier during the workweek but also attract visitors from the other boroughs.
A 2019 feasibility study looked into the possibility of adding ferry service to City Island or nearby Orchard Beach, but there has been no progress on this front. Longtime resident John Doyle suggests that the implementation of congestion pricing should prompt a reevaluation of this proposal. Census data shows that a significant percentage of City Island residents commute to Manhattan or Brooklyn regularly, either by car or public transportation, highlighting the need for alternative transit options.
The congestion pricing plan by the MTA is set to start in June, imposing a $15 fee on drivers traveling south of 60th Street in Manhattan. While intended to reduce traffic congestion and generate revenue for the transit agency, there are concerns that residents from outer boroughs lack accessible public transportation options and will now face additional costs for driving into Manhattan. The potential introduction of a ferry service could provide an attractive alternative for City Islanders, aligning with environmental and city policies aimed at encouraging fewer car trips.
City Island Rising, a civic organization, has launched a website urging residents to petition elected officials to support a landing for NYC Ferry. The closest NYC Ferry stop to City Island is currently located at Ferry Point Park in Throgs Neck. Resident David Diaz, who commutes to midtown Manhattan, notes that current commuting options by bus and subway can take over 90 minutes, necessitating the need for faster and more convenient alternatives like a ferry service.
Although the 2019 feasibility study conducted by the New York City Economic Development Corporation suggested that high commuting times and low resident interest could limit the viability of a direct ferry route from City Island, advocates like Doyle and Diaz believe the study overlooked the potential for increasing visitors to the island from other boroughs. With the legendary traffic often experienced during peak seasons on the island, ferry service could attract more foot traffic and boost business for the local restaurants and shops on the main street.
Residents are excited about the prospect of a ferry service as a means to reduce congestion, offer quicker transportation options, and increase tourism to City Island. Despite the challenges highlighted in the feasibility study, islanders are eager to push for the implementation of a ferry stop, especially as congestion pricing looms in the distance. By leveraging this opportunity and addressing the transportation needs of City Island residents, a potential ferry service could enhance connectivity and contribute to the overall sustainability of the neighborhood.
