Starting July 2024, the Staten Island Ferry terminals will undergo a $90 million renovation to improve accessibility and safety for more than 70,000 daily riders.

  • $90 million allocated for Staten Island Ferry terminal upgrades
  • Renovations begin July 2024 at Whitehall Terminal and St. George Terminal
  • Project completion expected by late 2026 with ADA enhancements

The Staten Island Ferry, operated by the New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT), serves as a vital transit link between Staten Island’s St. George Terminal and Manhattan’s Whitehall Terminal. The upcoming $90 million renovation project, announced by NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, aims to expand accessibility features including new elevators, ramps, and signage to comply fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These improvements will address decades-old infrastructure challenges at both terminals.

Why are these renovations necessary? The current terminals, especially Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan—one of the city’s busiest transit hubs—have aging facilities that have struggled to meet modern accessibility standards and safety codes. The upgrades will also enhance crowd management systems and emergency preparedness, which is crucial given the ferry’s role in transporting approximately 70,000 passengers daily, many of whom rely on the ferry for commuting.

How will the renovations impact Staten Island residents? The St. George Terminal on Staten Island will receive significant improvements including wider waiting areas, tactile guidance paths for visually impaired riders, and improved lighting. These changes will make the terminal safer and more navigable, encouraging increased ridership and supporting Staten Island’s economic growth by improving transit connectivity.

What can passengers expect during construction? While the NYCDOT has assured minimal disruption to ferry service, some temporary closures and detours inside the terminals are anticipated. Ferry schedules will largely remain intact, but passengers are encouraged to check for updates before travel. The renovations are scheduled for completion by late 2026, with phased openings of newly upgraded sections throughout the construction period.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do the Staten Island Ferry renovations start and end?

The renovations begin in July 2024 and are expected to be completed by late 2026. Construction will occur in phases to minimize service disruptions.

Which terminals will be renovated?

Both the Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan and the St. George Terminal on Staten Island will undergo accessibility and safety upgrades as part of the project.

Will ferry service be interrupted during construction?

The NYC Department of Transportation plans to maintain regular ferry operations with minimal interruptions, though some temporary interior closures and detours at terminals are expected.

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