NEW YORK, NY – New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced today that the city has secured over $10 million in funding from the U.S. Federal Transit Administration to enhance ferry operations for Governors Island and Staten Island. This funding includes a $7.5 million grant for shoreside rapid charging infrastructure to support the fully electric operations of the new hybrid-electric Governors Island Ferry. Additionally, a $3 million grant will be used for the rehabilitation of a New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) storage facility, crucial for the 24/7 operations of the Staten Island Ferry.
The hybrid-electric Governors Island Ferry, announced in March 2023, is a pioneering initiative in public transportation within New York Harbor, projected to reduce carbon emissions by 800 tons annually. This development is part of a broader vision to establish Governors Island as a leading center for green innovation, including the New York Climate Exchange launched in April 2023.
The Staten Island Ferry upgrades follow Mayor Adams’ agreement with the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, marking the city’s first contract with Staten Island Ferry licensed officers since 2010. This move is aimed at ensuring reliable, round-the-clock ferry service.
Mayor Adams highlighted the significance of this federal investment, emphasizing its role in enhancing the city’s waterways and reinforcing Governors Island’s status as a center of climate innovation. The introduction of the first public, electric vessel in New York Harbor is a step towards cleaner air and innovative technology.
Deputy Mayors Meera Joshi and Maria Torres-Springer, along with Trust for Governors Island President and CEO Clare Newman, expressed gratitude to the Biden administration and New York Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for their support in securing these funds. DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez also thanked the Federal Transit Administration and elected officials for their role in facilitating this investment, which will enhance the efficiency of Staten Island Ferry operations and introduce the first electric passenger ferry to Governors Island.
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer emphasized the importance of these federal grants in supporting the operations of both Governors Island and Staten Island Ferry, crucial for the millions of passengers relying on these services annually