Ferry Study Key Findings

The study team at Urbitran Associates, Inc. developed the following recommendations for the most effective ferry operations, terminal location and facilities, and a service model for review by potential operators:

Operation - The study’s recommended concept is a 150-passenger ferry operation (with approx. 400-500 daily passengers) between Stamford’s South End and Pier 11 located on the East River in Lower Manhattan. An additional stop at E. 34^th Street serving those commuting to Midtown was also evaluated and could serve as an additional destination in conjunction with commuter service to Lower Manhattan.

According to Urbitran’s travel demand analysis model, ferry service to Pier 11 is considered to have the strongest potential market for direct service from Stamford. The analysis model provides the starting point for the planning process, but ultimately business proposals from ferry service providers will define the routes. While more limited travel demand data is available for the market between Stamford and Long Island, the study indicates that a Long Island route should also be considered, due to the high cost and time required for other travel modes (i.e. bridge tolls, plus mileage).

Terminal Location and Facilities – The most effective site for a ferry terminal would be the southern tip of the South End peninsula (Brewer’s Yacht Haven site). This location provides the most competitive travel time in comparison both with other potential ferry terminal sites and other transportation modes, such as auto and rail. The site would create the least impact on existing residential and natural areas, and would allow sufficient room for parking and a weather-protected passenger loading area, along with offices for the Harbor Master and Stamford Police harbor patrol. Through discussion with the Harbor Commission, the addition of a town dock and small boat launching site are also being considered for the ferry terminal building program.

Service Model – The most effective business model for a private ferry operator provides a high level of passenger amenities, including airline-style seating, onboard café and bar service, wireless access, and comfortable workspaces. Initially, the service should provide three vessels, each carrying approximately 150 passengers at a price point of $15-20 per passenger trip. The vessels would travel at a top operational speed of 35 knots, for a travel time of about an hour.

Environmental Constraints – The preferred terminal location is within an existing active commercial marina and boatyard, and therefore is subject to the State’s Coastal Area Management (CAM) regulations that strictly limit non-marine related activities (like the parking that would be required for ferry passengers) and the displacement of existing water-dependent uses (i.e. boat repair, yacht sales, and dry storage). In addition, the current Master Plan category for the Brewer’s property strongly encourages the preservation of existing uses. These regulations, however, may not be incompatible with development of a ferry facility and some associated commercial development, if it can be demonstrated that these activities will strengthen rather than harm the existing uses.

Next Steps - Transportation Planner Josh Lecar is currently working with the Bridgeport Port Authority to organize a forum for ferry operators. This forum will give City staff the opportunity to share information about the feasibility study completed by Urbitran and to identify interested participants. Additional federal funding has been earmarked by the study to pursue construction of the ferry terminal facility following the identification of interested private sector participants. Ultimately, the ferry project can offer the citizens of Stamford a new level of access to recreational opportunities, such as boating, fishing and even waterfront dining, as well as a new mode of congestion-free travel to New York City.