NYC Explores Harlem-NJ Ferry for World Cup Access
Officials propose ferry connecting Harlem to New Jersey as World Cup transit alternative
Harlem-NJ Ferry Route Proposed for World Cup
A $20 million pier in Harlem that's sat empty for 16 years could finally get ferry service under a proposal connecting West 125th Street to Edgewater, New Jersey. City officials are pushing the route as an alternative to NJ Transit's World Cup tickets, which will cost riders more than $100 round-trip to MetLife Stadium matches. Rep. Adriano Espaillat and City Councilman Shaun Abreu gathered with activists Friday to advocate for the service, which residents have sought for years.
Unused Pier Represents Years of Missed Opportunity
The city completed the West 125th Street pier in 2009 but never established ferry service, leaving the $20 million investment underutilized for more than a decade and a half. Harlem residents have repeatedly called for a New Jersey connection, arguing the pier could provide crucial cross-river transit access. The World Cup announcement has renewed urgency around the proposal, with officials viewing expensive NJ Transit fares as justification for alternative routes. About $200 million in federal funding is available for ferry service and shuttle buses to MetLife Stadium, though applications face a May deadline.
Federal Funding Available, Timeline Uncertain
Officials hope ferry service would continue beyond the World Cup games, establishing permanent transit between Harlem and New Jersey communities. The NYC Economic Development Corporation said it will thoroughly evaluate the proposal and remains committed to providing soccer fans the best tournament experience. However, Edgewater officials stated a ferry connection during the World Cup wouldn't be possible due to tight water security for Fourth of July events. Edgewater expressed openness to regular ferry service with Harlem outside the World Cup period, though specific timelines for either scenario weren't provided.
Implementation Faces Security and Timing Hurdles
The May deadline for federal funding applications creates pressure to finalize plans quickly, though coordination between New York and New Jersey agencies remains ongoing. Edgewater's concerns about water security during Fourth of July events overlap with the World Cup schedule, complicating implementation for tournament matches. Officials didn't specify whether the ferry route could launch in time for World Cup games or would instead focus on post-tournament service.
Riders Await Details on Alternative Transit Options
Soccer fans traveling to MetLife Stadium matches will need to decide between NJ Transit's $100-plus round-trip fares and potential ferry alternatives if the Harlem route materializes. The proposal could benefit both World Cup attendees and regular commuters if service extends beyond the tournament. Riders can track real-time ferry schedules and route updates through Moovit as implementation details emerge.
