FREE Ferry A Fine Ferry-Tale

$5.69 per commuter ride is what New York City taxpayers pay to keep the Staten Island Ferry, “free.” That’s a 23.2% increase from the previous year, primarily attributed to rising fuel costs. On average for NYC’s nine ferries, the fuel consumption rate is 175-275 gallons an hour. The total operating cost was put at $112 million for fiscal year 2007. There’s little desire among politicians or ferry riders to reinstitute the 50 cent fare that was eliminated in 1997. Since there’s no reasonably priced alternative to accommodate our Staten Island residents and no more enjoyable ride in town ... c’mon and take a free ride.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcoaLnvU2hc

Ferry Settlement For Victim

Darius Marshall, 25, left home in October 2003. He never returned. Sadly, Marshall died in the Staten Island Ferry crash in 2003. This September, his family was awarded $2.3 million for their terrible loss. Marshall survived the 9/11 attack. He was standing near the South Tower when the jet struck the building. His family received word of the payment, also on 9/11. It’s hoped that the settlement will bring comfort and closure to his loved ones.

Ferry Man’s Ship Comes In

In 2003, a Staten Island Ferry crashed into the dock. It left James McMillan, 44, paralyzed. A jury awarded him $23 million. Now it’s up to the judge to determine the award. The jury based their decision on McMillan living another 25 years with necessary medical costs and for "pain and suffering." Let’s see if the judge agrees or torpedoes their judgment.

Forget Ferry Feasting For Now

Staten Island Ferry Terminal commuters must wait until 2009 for retail food establishments to open. Hard to believe that the $350 million terminal which opened in 2005 still doesn’t have a place serving quality meals. Fast-food isn't on the menu anytime soon.

Staten Island Ferries Won’t Go Bump In The Stormy Night

The Statue of Liberty’s torch isn’t powerful enough to light Upper New York Bay. Let’s be fair though. For over 100 years, her flame safely guided millions here from around the world. It doesn't need to be New York City’s night light too! Staten Island Ferry boats have been somewhat at the mercy of bad weather. To remedy this potentially dangerous situation, high-tech radar will be installed in 2008 on the city’s ferry boats and docks. This gear will enable captains to see their way clear through even the worst of storms. Great idea, but has New York truly gone all these years without this type of electronic system in place? That wasn't too bright.

NYC’s Ferry Fairy

There’s a new idea that’s being floated in this town. City Council Speaker Christine Quinn is proposing a plan to develop commuter-ferry service linking all five boroughs in New York. The plan is in it’s early stages and undoubtedly needs tinkering, but the concept and potential benefits to the city and it’s commuters are exciting. Generally considered to be one of the most powerful women in New York, Quinn may actually her vision come to be. Boat tours around Manhattan have been very popular for over a century. Being stuck on a train or in traffic has been very unpopular for about the same amount of time. Let’s hope this idea of hers proves to be water-worthy and not a Titanic waste of money.