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Commuters using New York Waterway ferries will see a fare increase starting Monday, May 11th. The company announced a temporary fuel surcharge averaging 5.5% to offset rising fuel costs. According to a statement from New York Waterway, the price they pay for fuel has surged by 80% since January due to global events, including ongoing geopolitical tensions such as the conflict in Iran.
The surcharge affects ferry routes between New Jersey and New York City, as well as from Ossining to Haverstraw. NBC New York reported that the company is committed to maintaining service quality despite the increased costs.
In a letter to customers, New York Waterway President and CEO Armand Pohan explained that fuel is a substantial part of their operating costs, necessitating the surcharge. The company plans to update customers once the temporary surcharge can be lifted.
The fare increase follows a recent hike by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for PATH services, which began on May 4th. The U.S. Postal Service has also temporarily raised package prices by 8% to cover higher transportation costs.
While some commuters, like Alison from Hoboken, acknowledge the impact on younger workers and families, others view the increase as manageable. "I don’t think 50 cents is going to make a difference," said one rider.
Hoboken Girl noted that the surcharge is part of broader economic effects stemming from global events. Despite some optimism for a resolution, the economic impact is already being felt across various sectors.
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