NYC Council Considers Ferry Service Expansion to City Island in the Bronx
BRONX, NY — The New York City Council is considering legislation that could bring NYC Ferry service to City Island, potentially improving transportation access, supporting local businesses and strengthening economic development opportunities in the waterfront Bronx community.
City Council Members Amanda Farías and Shirley Aldebol introduced legislation, known as Intro 1032, on September 10, 2026, that would require the New York City Department of Transportation, in coordination with other city agencies, to conduct a feasibility study examining potential ferry service to City Island.
The proposed study would evaluate possible ferry landing locations, environmental impacts, infrastructure requirements, construction and operating costs, and the anticipated effects on local businesses and commuters.
If the legislation is enacted, the city would have one year to complete the feasibility study and submit its findings to the Mayor and City Council Speaker. If a suitable location is identified, the Department of Transportation would be required to select a site and begin designing and constructing a ferry landing within one year of submitting the report. Ferry service would begin following completion of construction.
City Island, a waterfront community known for its residential neighborhoods, restaurants and maritime businesses, has limited public transportation options. Residents and visitors currently rely primarily on the Bx29 bus, which connects the island to the Pelham Bay Park subway station, or private vehicles.
Supporters of the proposal believe expanded ferry service could provide an additional commuting option, reduce dependence on automobile travel and make the neighborhood more accessible to visitors from other parts of New York City.
Local business owners have also expressed support for the proposal, citing the potential to attract additional customers and increase economic activity. Improved transportation connections could benefit City Island's restaurants, retail establishments and other businesses that depend on visitors.
From a real estate and community development perspective, expanded ferry access could also enhance neighborhood connectivity and provide an additional transportation amenity for residents and prospective homebuyers. However, the potential impacts would depend on the final route, service frequency, landing location and overall feasibility of the project.
The Bronx currently has NYC Ferry landings at Soundview and Ferry Point Park in Throggs Neck. The proposed City Island expansion would add another waterfront transportation connection to the borough.
The City Council's Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, jointly with the Economic Development Committee, is scheduled to consider the legislation on October 20, 2026. The proposal remains under review, and no ferry landing or service expansion has been approved.
Sources: Bronx Times, October 14, 2026 and New York City Council, Intro 1032-2026
