Friday, May 26, 2023 02:47 AM
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. (WABC) — The Staten Island Ferry is undergoing “significant changes” due to what officials say is the result of many workers calling in sick and advising the public to avoid non-essential ferry travel.
The New York Department of Transportation said Thursday morning that “the vast majority of the captains, mates and mates scheduled to operate the Staten Island Ferry vessels that day have called in sick.”
That, combined with the nation’s shortage of maritime workers, has led to “significant changes” in Staten Island Ferry service, they said.
Officials say the captains and both assistant captains called the midnight runs, and another standby captain also called Thursday morning.
According to the NYC DOT, the full crew required to operate a boat includes one captain, one assistant captain and three assistants.
NYC DOT says it had enough staff to operate hourly service Thursday afternoon and evening.
They are urging the public to “avoid non-essential ferry journeys and use alternative modes of transport where possible”.
“The City is focused on ensuring that ferry passengers can get to their destinations safely, and we will continue to keep New Yorkers informed,” the NYC DOT said.
———-
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or idea for a story we should cover? Submit it to Eyewitness News using the form below. When you attach a video or photo, terms of use apply.
Copyright © 2023 WABC-TV. All rights reserved.
