Malliotakis Applauds NYCEDC for Moving Staten Island–Brooklyn Ferry Closer to Reality

(NEW YORK, NY) - Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) today issued the following statement regarding news that plans to launch a new ferry route reconnecting Staten Island and Brooklyn have moved one step closer to becoming a reality.

"As a member of the Congressional Ferry Caucus and one of the lawmakers who voted for the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law which has invested in our infrastructure, ports, and waterways, I’m pleased that today’s announcement reflects a top priority of mine to strengthen, modernize, and expand our maritime transportation and ferry network.

For years, we’ve urged the city to better utilize our waterways to ease traffic and expand transportation options for Staten Islanders and Brooklynites. Now, for the first time in decades, the city is one step closer to reconnecting Staten Island and Brooklyn by ferry. If there is enough positive response during the upcoming public comment period, this long-awaited route could become a reality as soon as this winter. When the feedback period opens, we urge Staten Islanders and Brooklynites to weigh in so both boroughs have greater access to reliable and affordable ferries."

Earlier this year, Malliotakis launched the Bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus, aiming to advocate for the needs of communities that rely on ferry transportation, highlight the benefits of ferry systems, and secure long-term federal investments to strengthen marine operations, shoreside infrastructure, and workforce development.