“A” train vs Rockaway ferry in timed test as NYC considers changes

by Greg Mocker 
Reporter

New York City commuters know how to weigh their transit options. Bus? Subway? Will walking speed up the process?

In the summer of 2011, more boats were added into the mix in the East River. New Jersey commuters have been utilizing ferries for years to destinations up and down their coast.

Ridership of the East River River ferries is three times what was anticipated. More than 3 million riders have logged trips from 34th Street in Manhattan, to Long Island City, and then on to major spots in Brooklyn (including Greenpoint, Williamsburg and Brooklyn Bridge Park) says the New York City Economic Development Corporation.

A city-commissioned study found a positive economic benefit to neighborhoods near the docks.

The city is reviewing key areas that could benefit from future service: Astoria, Roosevelt Island, a number of locations along the waterfront in the Bronx, Long Island City and Staten Island via the westside.

The Rockaway ferry was added after Hurricane Sandy. The previous mayor and city council extended it to January 2014. Supporters are advocating to make it permanent. They will be holding a rally on January 21, 2014 at 5 p.m. at Pier 11 in Manhattan.

PIX11′s Greg Mocker challenged riders to a race. He took the ‘A’ train from Fulton Street in lower Manhattan near the docks and he tracked the trip with Noreen on the Rockaway ferry.

The ferry took 59 mintes (as scheduled) to arrive at Beach 108th St. Mocker arrived at the nearest subway station after an hour and fifteen minute subway ride.