NYC Ferry Redesign Will Add More Stops, Change Routes: What To Know

NEW YORK CITY — The New York Economic Development Corporation has announced a new redesign and map of NYC Ferry routes on Monday.

As part of the redesign, the new route map will include connections to Staten Island and Brooklyn, as well as extending southern Brooklyn service to Manhattan. Officials have also disclosed future plans to expand ferry service to East Harlem and Sunset Park.

The new route changes will go into effect Dec. 8.

The updated plan will include:

• Split the East River into two routes at most times of day, increasing capacity and making trips faster. A local route will serve all stops on the East River during midday on weekdays and on winter weekends to preserve connectivity.
• Combine the Soundview and Rockaway routes, getting Rockaway route riders to Midtown and E 90th St with a one-seat ride and filling previously near-empty boats going toward the Bronx during morning commutes.
• Connect the St. George (Staten Island) route to Brooklyn and the rest of the system. Create access for the first time from Brooklyn to Manhattan’s west side.
• Provide a one-seat ride to Midtown for the South Brooklyn route, opening a popular job center to Red Hook and Atlantic Ave residents and increasing frequency.
• Introduce an additional pilot service in South Brooklyn on Summer weekends in 2026, extending the new South Brooklyn route to Bay Ridge and Sunset Park for local connections.
• This pilot service will be analyzed and evaluated next fall

“From Throgs Neck to the Rockaways, our city’s ferries give New Yorkers and tourists alike a convenient, affordable way to travel across the five boroughs,” Mayor Eric Adams said. “Thanks to smart investments to make our ferry system more accessible, affordable, and sustainable, we’ve already shattered ridership records this summer, and with this comprehensive redesign, we’ll embark on the next great stretch of NYC Ferry’s journey to bring this dynamic service to even more New Yorkers.”