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Congressmember Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) was joined by New York Waterway Chairman Armand Pohan during a tour of the prospective 125th Street trans-Hudson Ferry Service that will connect residents of New Jersey and Harlem to Midtown Manhattan, transforming the West Harlem Piers at 125th Street into a major ferry hub.

The proposed ferry service, alongside ongoing transportation development initiatives, will introduce a reliable and affordable transit option to major employment centers like Columbia University and historically underserved neighborhoods like East Harlem. “Ensuring better connections for East Harlem residents is critical,” reiterated Rep. Espaillat, “especially during construction of phase two of the Second Avenue Subway.

“Waterborne transportation provides an environmentally friendly transit solution for historically redlined communities and congested areas,” Espaillat continued. Consistent with the goals of the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, the proposed ferry service will reduce carbon monoxide and ozone emissions and particulate matter pollution. In addition, the congestion mitigation relief will reduce travel delays, engine idle time, and unproductive fuel consumption for commuters between New Jersey, Harlem, and Midtown Manhattan.

During the waterway tour, Rep. Espaillat and Chairman Pohan discussed federal engagement with the regional transit initiative and were joined by senior staff from the offices of Representative Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) and Representative Robert Menendez (NJ-08); Mark Sokolich, Mayor of Fort Lee; Michael McPartland, Mayor of Edgewater; New York City Councilmember Yusef Salaam; and others.

The tour departed from Edgewater, NJ, and served the West Harlem Piers at 125th Street and the Pier 79 Ferry Terminal. Future ferry service along the Hudson River may also serve landings at Dyckman Street and Riverdale in accord with longstanding proposals recognized by local leaders, the Waterfront Alliance, and the New York Economic Development Corporation.

JazzFest

Every Saturday at 6:00 PM until September 28th.

Waterfront Festival on Saturday

The Public Programs Team at Randall's Island Park Alliance is excited to announce the return of the Waterfront Festival this Saturday, July 20th, from 12 - 3 PM at the East River Picnic Area at Randall's Island. This FREE event welcomes all ages and abilities to celebrate water, science, and summer fun along the park’s stunning waterfront. Please join us for live music, arts, crafts, educational activities, interactive life-sized bubbles, free treats, a live performance by Arm-of-the-Sea Theater and more!