The bustling Staten Island Ferry is set to reintroduce concessions within the next two months, as Dunkin has been chosen as the new concessionaire. This marks the first return of refreshments on the ferryboats since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Dunkin, known globally for its coffee and donuts, will also be pursuing necessary permits to offer beer on the ferryboats.
This decision was made through a competitive process initiated by a Request for Proposal (RFP) announced in January. Dunkin is expected to initially run concession stands on two of the newest class ferryboats, the Staff Sergeant Michael H. Ollis and the Dorothy Day, with plans to expand to more boats in the future.
The Staten Island Ferry, the busiest municipal ferry service in the United States, carries approximately 45,000 passengers daily and over 15 million annually. With a lease agreement finalized on November 20, operations are set to commence within 60 days.
The lease spans 10 years, with an option for two additional five-year extensions, potentially totaling 20 years. The NYCEDC evaluated RFP respondents based on criteria such as industry experience, financial capability, and the variety of products and services offered.
NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez and NYCEDC President Andrew Kimball expressed excitement about enhancing the ferry experience by reintroducing concessions. Kimball noted the collaboration with NYC DOT and the positive impact on daily riders.
Local officials, including New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, Assemblymembers Charles D. Fall and Sam Pirozzolo, and Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella, praised the return of concessions as a much-needed improvement. They highlighted the convenience and enhancement to the rider experience.
Councilmember David Carr and Kamillah Hanks emphasized the importance of providing quality options reflecting the ferry’s significance. They commended the NYC DOT and NYCEDC for fulfilling their promise to restore these services.
