OUR MISSION
Save the Ferry coalition is a citizen-led initiative to restore and expand the crucial ferry service to Newburgh-Beacon after the MTA’s abrupt service cancellation in 2025. Our activists have organized community rallies, public advocacy campaigns, and sent sign on letters to Governor Kathy Hochul supported by Congressman Pat Ryan and NY state, county and local elected officials.
Our petition has over 1700 signatures from residents, small businesses, environmental organizations, and community development stakeholders asking Governor Kathy Hochul to restore and expand the service.
WHY THE FERRY?
Many people need and want reliable, affordable, transportation. 30% of Newburgh residents don’t own cars.
Transportation options should not be contingent on car ownership, wealth, or the ability to withstand long detours over a tolled bridge.
The suspension of the Newburgh–Beacon Ferry deprives Mid-Hudson Valley communities of a vital link to mass transit and economic opportunity.
Cut traffic congestion and commute times for everyone
A ferry trip takes 7 to 10 minutes. A bus across the Newburgh-Beacon bridge, caught in traffic, especially on Route 9D, can take 45 minutes. Development and population growth is accelerating on both sides of the Hudson River. Growing traffic congestion underscores the need for dependable, accessible, multimodal transportation systems.
The ferry connects Mid-Hudson Valley residents and tourists to local restaurants, businesses, amenities, and recreation in Beacon and Newburgh. Some riders took the ferry to experience the breathtaking beauty of the peaceful river landscape and access recreational trails or anchoring cultural centers.
Support local businesses and encourage cross-Hudson tourism
PROTECT CLIMATE GOALS
Reliable and efficient public transportation is key to a low-carbon economy.
Continue a 220-year legacy of cross-river transportation
With a rich history as an Indigenous crossing point prior to European settlement, ferry service between Newburgh and Beacon dates back to 1743, making it one of the oldest ferry routes in the country.