New York City Ferry Service

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/20/opinion/new-york-city-ferry-service.html

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To the Editor:

Re “New York’s Ferry Push: Rides to 5 Boroughs, at a Subway Price” (front page, June 16):

There are few guarantees in life or in transit, but the new citywide ferry service is far from a gamble, especially at a small fraction of the cost of other transportation megaprojects.

Over the last few years the East River Ferry service ridership has more than tripled original projections, as well as proving itself a genuine New York bargain for the taxpayer, with lower than expected per rider subsidies.

Give them safe, frequent, affordable ferry service — and a little time to change their habits — and New Yorkers will embrace it. To those who now suffer through two-hour commutes from transit deserts or on unbearably overcrowded subway cars, the arrival of the new ferries will be a sure ticket to an improved life.

ROLAND LEWIS

President and Chief Executive

Waterfront Alliance

New York