Overview
- The New York City Economic Development Corporation board voted unanimously Wednesday to raise the single-ride NYC Ferry fare from $4.50 to $5 and set the changes to take effect Oct. 19.
- The approved package also raises the 10-trip pass from $29 to $30 and the discounted one-way fare from $1.45 to $1.50 while making the $15 two-day unlimited pass permanent.
- EDC officials, including senior vice president Matthew Petric, said the increases will generate roughly $2 million a year and help offset higher light fuel and operating costs for the system.
- Riders will see only small per-ride increases but advocates and critics note the system remains subsidized despite growing use, with annual ridership above 7 million and an estimated per-rider subsidy near $8.
- The vote came under new EDC leadership that the mayor has charged with prioritizing affordability and economic justice, signaling a balance between raising revenue and keeping access for seniors, people with disabilities, students and low-income riders.