MTA releases preliminary plan for a shared use path on the VNB

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The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) recently released a preliminary report on its Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge Master Plan — including conceptual views of possible shared-use paths on the bridge.

The current proposals are much more ambitious than previous bridge path designs, and the costs reflect that – estimated to be between $300 and $400 million. The encouraging part is that the MTA has seemingly put real effort and resources into finally building a walking and bicycling connection between Staten Island and Brooklyn.

You can view the entire MTA presentation HERE.

Great turnout for the Harbor Ring Rally in Bay Ridge!

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Over 200 supporters joined us in Bay Ridge to show support for a pedestrian and bicycle path on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge! Much thanks to Senator Marty Golden, Councilman Vincent Gentile, the Bay Ridge Merchants of Third Avenue, the Staten Island Athletic Club, the Staten Island Bicycle Association, and the Five Boro Bicycle Club for lending their voices to the cause!

“We want to walk and ride on the Verrazzano!”

Runners and cyclists, commuters and tourists, Staten Islanders and Brooklynites…No matter who you are, you’ve made it clear: you want to be able to walk and ride over the Verrazzano Bridge!  Hundreds of the Harbor Ring’s supporters have commented on our petition for a multi-use path on the bridge:

vnb pre-ride“This is important to me because public transportation off and on Staten Island is limited. I have wondered for a long time why there isn’t already a pedestrian path across the bridge, since most NYC bridges do allow pedestrians. This would certainly make travel to Brooklyn much easier especially when money is tight.” -Vincent, Staten Island

Alternate access to parks and historic sites in Staten Island besides the roundabout way using the crowded ferry that has a limited schedule.”  -Emily, Brooklyn

“I live in Staten Island and it would be way more convenient for me to bike across the bridge to buy food or visit friends and family members.” -David H. Staten Island

“As a native of SI and now a Bay Ridge resident who is carless, this would be a life saver for getting back home, without spending the 1.5+ hour bus trip.”  -Andrea, Brooklyn

“I just attempted to walk all five boroughs yesterday, only to find out that pedestrians are not allowed on the Verrazzano Bridge! What a disappointment after 25 grueling miles! Please finish the bridge. Thank you!”  -Jason, Liverpool, NY

“For increased happiness and a transportation opportunity that is cheaper and an exercise-induced, healthier option to get to my work on Staten Island. I think it also would allow for increased economic opportunities as well.”  -Megan, Brooklyn

Let us know your own reason on Twitter @TheHarborRing: Why do YOU want to walk and ride over the Verrazzano?