Photo Courtesy of NYCEDC
The 19 boats under construction will report for duty in NYC in 2017.
By Forum Staff
Construction has officially begun on 19 vessels that will service New York City’s first citywide ferry system with the latest in 21st century maritime technology and best design practices.
Assembly line construction is already underway on seven aluminum-made vessels at two world class shipyards, with work commencing on each boat thereafter at two-week intervals. Approximately 200 full-time builders between both shipyards are working on the project.
“We are moving full steam ahead and bringing modern ferry boats, outfitted with the latest technology and safety features, to our waterways. This new fleet will help us connect commuters and visitors alike to neighborhoods throughout the city,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio.
Both shipyards are currently receiving vessel components and building the frame for each boat, before systematically assembling the rest of the hull and super structure. This construction process reduces manufacturing time, allows for minor modifications throughout the boat build process and furthers on-time project delivery, with the first set of vessels expected to arrive in New York City in early 2017.
Specs and features for Citywide Ferry vessels include:
Capacity for 150 passengers along with space for bikes, strollers and wheelchairs.
ADA Local Law 68/2005 accessibility and compliance.
Boats are 85 feet long, offering passengers more space than more traditional ferries.
Ferries are primarily built out of aluminum, which is safe, light weight and increases fuel efficiency.
Use of ultra-efficient engines to reduce emissions.
Innovative hull design to limit wake and maximize fuel efficiency.
Wi-Fi available throughout the vessel.
Heated decks that increase each vessel’s resiliency and durability, especially during the cold, snowy winter months.
–The shipyards, Metal Shark in Jeanerette, Louisiana and Horizon in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, were selected because of their strong history of producing high quality vessels quickly and efficiently.
–Citywide Ferry Service will carry an estimated 4.6 million passenger trips per year across six routes, providing new transportation to communities where housing and jobs are growing rapidly. The East River Ferry will also be fully integrated into Citywide Ferry, which will reduce the cost of that service from $4 to the same cost as a subway ride.
–19 vessels will be operating at 21 landings throughout New York City, providing an affordable transit option for people in underserved communities and connecting New Yorkers with the city’s hundreds of miles of waterfront. Phase one of Citywide Ferry Service, which includes the use of 12 vessels, is scheduled to launch in summer 2017.
–Final assembly of all vessel components is expected to occur at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Construction of the barges has been underway for several months on Staten Island. Later this year, NYCEDC will begin installation of new ferry landings for the 2017 routes.
FAST FERRY FACTS:
JOBS:
At least 155 new jobs in the New York Harbor
ROUTE TIMES:
Rockaway to Wall Street (1 stop): Approximately 1 hour
Astoria to E 34th Street (2 stops): Approximately 22 minutes
Astoria to Wall Street (3 stops): Approximately 38 minutes
Soundview to Wall Street (2 stops): Approximately 43 minutes
Bay Ridge to Wall Street (4 stops): Approximately 48 minutes
PRICING:
Cost per ride will equal that of a single subway ride
4,000 daily East River Ferry customers will see fares reduced from $4 to the cost of a single subway ride
Fare will allow for free transfers to any other ferry route within the system, including the East River Ferry.
Passengers will be allowed to bring bicycles on board for a $1 fee.
