Empire State Review Team 
New York City — The Staten Island Ferry will launch significant service upgrades starting next month, city officials announced on Sunday. The changes include increased frequency during off-peak hours and 24/7 access to modernized ferries equipped with improved amenities.
The upgrades aim to enhance connectivity for Staten Island residents, who have long advocated for better service. The ferry is a vital lifeline for commuters, carrying over 25 million passengers annually between Staten Island and Lower Manhattan.
“These improvements are about equity and efficiency,” said NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “Every borough deserves world-class transit options, and Staten Island is no exception.”
The new ferries will feature expanded seating, Wi-Fi, and climate-controlled interiors, making the commute more comfortable. The city has also committed to reducing ferry emissions by transitioning to hybrid-electric vessels by 2030.
Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella hailed the upgrades as a win for the borough. “This is a long-overdue investment in our community,” Fossella said. “It’s a step toward closing the transit gap.”
