‘A crucial lifeline.’ Community fights to save Newburgh-Beacon ferry after MTA shuts it down
The MTA announced June 23 that it is permanently discontinuing the ferry service, citing low ridership and storm damage to the Beacon dock as the primary reasons.
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After decades of ferrying commuters across the Hudson River, the Newburgh-Beacon Ferry has officially made its final trip — and the backlash has been swift.
The MTA announced June 23 that it is permanently discontinuing the ferry service, citing low ridership and storm damage to the Beacon dock as the primary reasons.
“Sixty-two riders were using the Newburgh-Beacon Ferry,” says MTA President Justin Vonashek. “That’s extremely low ridership. So, when we looked at the service in January, it didn’t make sense.”
The MTA also argues that the ferry duplicates an existing bus route, the Newburgh-Beacon Shuttle, which follows a similar path and timetable.
“What I think is important to point out is there were two redundant services — you have the Newburgh-Beacon Ferry and then you have the Newburgh-Beacon Shuttle Bus,” Vonashek says. “Essentially, same travel patterns, same stops, same travel time. So, we didn’t really remove the service. We are working to enhance the opportunities for the Newburgh residents.”
Still, many commuters say the ferry was faster, more reliable, and built a sense of community that can’t be replaced by a bus.
"It was a crucial life line," says Sonya Grant, of Newburgh. "It was eight-minute ride of family. I got to know the captains. We became community - where it wasn't about the extent of the ride."
On Tuesday night, hundreds gathered in Newburgh to protest the decision, with Rep. Pat Ryan joining riders in demanding the MTA restore the service.
“The MTA is giving a 'BS' story. This is absolutely unacceptable,” Ryan said. “We pay into the MTA. Our tax dollars go to the MTA and then all that money goes to New York City.”
Ryan slammed the agency for failing to engage with the community before ending the ferry.
“There were hundreds of people in Newburgh,” Ryan said. “The MTA should actually come here, see people, and talk to people on the ground — but they don’t even have the dignity to show up. So, we are going to make clear to them: This community will not let this be taken without a real fight.”
For now, MTA bus service is being offered as an alternative, and the New York State Department of Transportation is planning to provide free shuttle service in 2026.
Ryan says he’s not backing down and that efforts are underway to restore the ferry before then.
