Bloomy Likes Himself A Ferry

Mayor Bloomberg is throwing his weight behind the [long-beleaguered Rockaway ferry] in the hopes that, despite past failed attempts, the commuter waterway will mollify those angered by his new congestion tax. And perhaps it’ll work this time, thanks to the Department of Transportation’s flip-flop regarding [public subsidies](http://www.newsday.com/news/local/newyork/am-ferr0509,0,5946520.story?track=rss); just two years ago, they were singing this tune: “Our policy is not to be involved in subsidies.” Catchy.

Past efforts to connect Rockaways to Manhattan by boat, including a pilot weekend ferry in 2003, have not been successful, largely due to price—a whopping $26 one way. Since then, the DOT has trolled for ferry proposals, but to no avail. This time, city officials hope to keep the fare to a measly $4 each way, the same as express bus service into Manhattan. The current subway ride takes as long as an hour and a half; the ferry could cut that to [45 glorious minutes].

Photo courtesy of [Pro-Zak on Flickr]