Governors Island Reopens To Public With Limitations

Governors Island
Photo credit Getty Images
Sign up for WCBS 880's daily newsletter for the latest updates on the coronavirus pandemic.

NEW YORK (WCBS 880) — Governors Island reopened to the public with limited capacity on Wednesday morning.

To ensure a safe environment for all visitors, there will be a number of health, safety and social distancing protocols, including a new ticket reservation system to manage capacity on ferries, the Trust for Governors Island announced previously.

The Trust is also giving free ferry rides to NYCHA residents and seniors. President and CEO of the island’s Trust Clare Newman says now is an especially crucial time to give New Yorkers an out.

“Governors Island is one of New York City’s – I think – most special places and the idea of after being cooped up in your apartment for months and months, to be able to come out and enjoy 172 acres of green space, people are excited,” she said.

Governors Island

Socially distant barbeque grills are also set to open on the island in the coming weeks.

For the health and safety of all, The Trust for Governors Island is implementing the following protocols:

  • A new ticket reservation system to manage capacity on ferries. Visitors are required to purchase tickets in advance and must depart on their selected return ferry.
  • Requiring visitors to wear face coverings while riding the ferry, or when social distancing is not possible.
  • Reminding visitors to stay 6 feet apart when queuing on the ferry, while riding the ferry, and while visiting the Island.
  • Increased cleaning procedures and schedules in all restrooms, aboard ferries, and in high-touch, high-traffic areas across the Island.
  • Enhanced health and safety protocols at all food and drink vending locations.
  • Installing hand sanitizer and hand washing stations throughout the Island.

Visitors must reserve tickets in advance through the ticket reservation system and are asked to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to ferry departure time.

Meanwhile, the High Line on Manhattan's West Side will open Thursday, with limited capacity and one-way foot traffic moving north from Gansevoort to 23rd Street.

Liberty and Ellis islands will partially reopen Monday. Guests will be able to walk the grounds of the islands, but Lady Liberty herself will be off limits. Vistiors will have to wear masks and there will be limited capacity on ferries to the islands.

Stay informed, stay connected — follow WCBS 880 on Facebook and Twitter. Download the RADIO.COM app + favorite WCBS 880 for breaking news, traffic and weather alerts.