Kim Woodruff says City Island ferry would help families and businesses
A City Island mom and ice cream shop owner says a ferry would expand high school options, reduce commutes, and bring foot traffic; she addresses parking and cost concerns and wants Main Street thriving.
My name is Kim Woodruff.
I am a City Island resident of 14 years, a mom, and a new City Island business owner.
Can you make sure to turn on your microphone, please?
Oh, sorry.
Thank you.
My name is Kim Woodruff.
I am a City Island resident of 14 years, a mom, and a new City Island business owner.
I wholeheartedly support bringing a ferry stop to City Island.
As a mom, I know firsthand how much a ferry would open up opportunities for families like mine.
For example, it would expand the pool of high schools that City Island kids could realistically attend.
My daughter was accepted into one of the most desirable high schools in the city, but she has an hour and a half commute each way.
Even the very closest high schools require students to travel at least 40 minutes.
Transportation is a real limitation for families on the island.
As a business owner on City Island, I meet people every day who love visiting the island, but complain about how difficult it is to get here, especially without a car.
Many say they would come back more often if it were easier.
When I mention the possibility of a ferry, they're thrilled.
I have no doubt people would use it.
From my shop, I see so many empty storefronts.
I'd love to see our Main Street thriving again.
At my ice cream shop, I've been able to provide jobs for local teenagers who are earning their own money, developing skills, and contributing to our community.
We need more opportunities like that.
A ferry could bring foot traffic, support existing businesses, and encourage new ones to open.
I also want to address concerns about parking and cost.
Why would people drive to City Island to catch a ferry when they have transportation options closer to home?
On weekends, a ferry could actually reduce traffic by bringing visitors here without their cars.
And while ferries cost money to operate, we should also consider the economic benefits of increased business activity, jobs, and sales tax revenue.
Finally, a ferry would improve our quality of life.
The idea of simply walking down to a ferry and going somewhere in the city without worrying about traffic, parking, or multiple transfers is a dream.
City Island is a special place with so much potential.
A ferry would connect us to the rest of New York City, create opportunities for our children, support local businesses, and help revitalize our main street.
Got it right in time.
Thank you.