Hopes are high that the East River Ferry connecting Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan can become a viable commuting mode, while also boosting development around its landings. Although ridership is growing, some doubt if it can become self-sustaining.
While the priceless views and serene surroundings win raves from its few regular riders, only one year into a three-year contract subsidized to the tune of $9 million by the City of New York, "the verdict on whether the service will sustain itself is far from clear," reports Joseph Berger.
"The number of riders on the service as a whole is growing; in its first
year, beginning in June 2011, 1.2 million passengers rode the ferries,
according to the New York City Economic Development Corporation, which
oversees the service." But many of those riders were tourists and families out for a one-time jaunt. "But it is not yet apparent," writes Berger, "that the ferries can become a daily habit for
enough people to keep New York Waterway, which operates the ferry, from
losing money, as it has on some other routes."
FULL STORY: Hoping to Lure Riders With Scenic Commutes
The Future of the Typical, Solo Car Commute
A study finds that a third of workers would prefer to work remotely every day of the workweek, potentially removing nearly 50 million cars from U.S. roadways.
Atlanta Commuters Outspend the Rest of the Country
The commute costs Atlanta residents more than in any other city, according to new analysis by Educated Driver.
East River Ferry Service Is Transforming America's First Suburbs
Once again, the ferry is remaking the Brooklyn waterfront. One hundred years after making Brooklyn Heights the nation's original suburb, it's spawning new developments along the Brooklyn and Queens waterfront. And the fare? Same as a subway ride.
Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto
The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.
National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions
Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.
Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50
A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.
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Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto
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