Dear Editor:
In evaluating the various response efforts in the recent blackout, New York Waterways poor showing in their ferry service needs a close look. I fully support expanded passenger ferry service in the New York/New Jersey area, and recent events have shown us the importance of ferries as a transportation alternative. However, last week’s blackout revealed New York Waterways apparent lack of planning for such an emergency. There were no bullhorns or emergency lights to help direct and inform the crowds. Passengers were loaded on boats with minimal information of the boat’s destination, destinations were sometimes changed mid stream and there was no system to receive and direct passengers on the New Jersey side. I was fortunate to leave from Battery Park City where the two hours wait was civil but I have spoken to people who waited over six hours to leave from New York’s 38th Street pier.
I appreciate the number of people New York Waterway transported that day and how hard their employees were working but New York’s prime ferry operator owes it to all concerned to get their act together and develop and implement a comprehensive emergency evacuation plan.
Hank Forrest