Council Member Aldebol introduces City Island ferry study bill

Thank you.

I'd like to recognize that we've been joined by Hanif on Zoom, Thomas Henry, Marte, Jay Sanchez, Banks, and De La Rosa, Councilmember Aldebar, followed by Thomas Henry for your openings.

Thank you, Chair Abreu.

I'm happy to be here today to discuss the importance of our waterfronts and the opportunities we have to study and expand ferry service across the five boroughs.

I want to thank my colleagues, Majority Leader Abreu, Chair Maloney for holding this hearing, and my colleague, Councilmember Farias, Kevin Riley, and Justin Sanchez for their partnership.

Earlier this fall, Councilmember Farias and I introduced Intro 1030-2026 requiring a study on the feasibility and utility of expanding New York City Ferry Service to the City Island area.

The goal of this legislation is to gain more accurate and relevant data on the transit patterns and needs of the East Bronx residents, as well as updated information on the logistical feasibility of additional ferry service in that area.

The information provided by a new comprehensive study would help identify key considerations shedding light on economic activity, community vitality, and other factors needed to determine whether ferry service should be expanded.

City Island is an incredibly special community, which I have the honor of representing on the City Council.

Expanded New York City ferry service in the area have the potential to be truly transformative for families, commuters, and small businesses.

With the status quo, the city island that we know and love is being lost year after year as historic restaurants close their doors.

doors and businesses close their doors and the next generation of families struggle to commute to work and to school while remaining on the island.