In a significant step towards enhancing Metro-North Railroad’s accessibility, Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a pilot program introducing weekend service on the Haverstraw-Ossining Ferry for the first time. The initiative will also offer substantial ticket discounts ranging from 50% to 90% on Monthly UniTickets for the Newburgh-Beacon Ferry, Haverstraw-Ossining Ferry, Newburgh-Beacon Bus, and Hudson Link Bus.
The announcement was made alongside the completion of a multi-year modernization project at Harmon Yard. The upgraded repair and support facilities will enable Metro-North to maintain its historically high on-time performance.
“We are thrilled to offer weekend ferry service to West of Hudson residents who seek convenient access to Metro-North’s Hudson Line,” said Governor Hochul. “Orange and Rockland County residents will also benefit from discounted parking at our North White Plains garage, providing greater incentive to take Metro-North to Manhattan and other destinations.”
Assemblymember Ken Zebrowski emphasized the challenges faced by West of Hudson commuters, adding, “Today’s announcement provides more transportation options while easing financial burdens. Expanded ferry services and discounted bus fares will benefit residents and visitors alike.”
Haverstraw Mayor Michael Kohut expressed excitement over the development, saying, “Our long-anticipated weekend ferry connection to Ossining and Metro-North is finally a reality. It will facilitate tourism and bolster the west side of the Hudson as a key destination.”
The pilot program, set to continue until Veteran’s Day, follows previous fare exemptions for the Port Jervis and Pascack Valley Lines during systemwide inflation adjustments.
Rockland County Executive Ed Day welcomed the new service but called for further improvements: “We appreciate the expansion of ferry service but are disappointed at the lack of increased weekday options. Rockland commuters need reliable public transit at different times of the day.”
He further advocated for expanded ferry services and funding for Gateway and Bergen Loop projects. “With Rockland County’s $40 million annual value gap, fares and parking should ideally be free. We hope MTA will soon enhance weekday ferry services and improve rail service to deliver equitable benefits to our residents.”
The Metro-North pilot program marks a significant move in addressing longstanding transit needs for Rockland County residents, setting the stage for potential future expansions.
Ask why they killed the rail link across the “NEW” Tappan Zee bridge though instead of this slow plan. Its one of the reasons I chose not to move to Orange County
@JMAL: Hopefully they will still build a rail link in the future. With a rail link, Rockland and Orange property values will skyrocket along with desirability for commuters. It could go a long way to relieving the housing affordability crisis in greater NY.