NYC Eyes Ferry to Ease World Cup Transit Costs

NYC considers West Harlem ferry to New Jersey as cheaper World Cup transit option

NYC Eyes Ferry to Cut World Cup Transit Costs

World Cup fans heading to MetLife Stadium could get a cheaper alternative to NJ Transit's $150 round-trip fare if a proposed ferry service from West Harlem to New Jersey moves forward. U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat and City Councilman Shaun Abreu are backing the plan, which would offer a 10-minute water crossing followed by a shuttle bus to the stadium in East Rutherford. Officials haven't said how much ferry tickets would cost or whether the service will be ready when matches begin in July.

Proposal Targets Affordability Concerns

The ferry initiative comes as transit advocates push back against NJ Transit's pricing for World Cup games, which supporters say could price out many fans. New York City's Economic Development Corporation is evaluating whether to apply for federal funding from the $200 million allocated to World Cup host cities, according to agency representatives. The proposed route would connect West Harlem, Manhattan to Edgewater, New Jersey, an area that hasn't had ferry service since the 1940s. Officials said the ferry could ease congestion on bridges and tunnels, particularly the George Washington Bridge, though specific traffic projections weren't provided.

Tight Timeline Poses Challenges

The World Cup is set to begin in July, just 48 days away, leaving little time to launch a new transit service from scratch. The plan faces significant hurdles including securing funding, finding an operator, obtaining boats and buses, and hiring staff, according to transit officials. The EDC confirmed it's evaluating the proposal but said no final decision has been made. Officials didn't provide a timeline for when they'll announce whether the ferry service will move forward or how quickly it could be operational if approved.

Implementation Details Remain Unclear

If approved, the ferry would transport passengers from West Harlem across the Hudson River to Edgewater in approximately 10 minutes, followed by a shuttle bus connection to MetLife Stadium. Officials haven't released details about service frequency, total capacity, or how many ferries would operate on game days. The agency also didn't say whether the service would continue after the World Cup concludes or if it's intended only as a temporary solution for the tournament.

Riders Await Decision on Alternative

World Cup attendees are waiting to learn whether they'll have a more affordable option than NJ Transit's $150 fare, though officials haven't said when they'll make a final decision. The proposal offers potential relief for fans concerned about transit costs, but the tight timeline and logistical challenges leave uncertainty about whether the service will launch in time. Moovit provides real-time updates for ferry and transit connections throughout the New York City and New Jersey region.