S.I. Ferry Terminal Looks Forward To A Possibly Upscale Future

Staten Island Borough President James Molinaro announced at a Tuesday conference that he is allocating $1.2 million for infrastructure improvements at St. George’s Ferry Terminal, in the hopes of making it a destination spot not just on the Island, but for the city as a whole. Recently, the Economic Development Corporation contracted to add phone lines and electricity to the terminal’s 20,000 square-feet of retail space, in anticipation of opening store sometime in 2009.

“The EDC is letting out a contract to complete the space so that people can bid on it and move in to make it ready for establishing the future of this terminal and St. George,” said Democratic North Shore Councilman Mike McMahon.

Although covered and empty now, officials see potential in the terminal for an upscale market, found in many transportation hubs around the country, including Grand Central Terminal.

“Several years ago, people would never assume Grand Central Terminal would be the beautiful go-to place it is now, with an upscale market and a fish market and a butcher and a farmer’s market,” said Republican South Shore Assemblyman Lou Tobacco. “And that’s exactly what we’re trying to do now.”

Officials say the largest of the lots would be perfect for a fine dining restaurant with outdoor seating by the water.

“There are very few views in the world as lovely as the view from the Staten island Ferry, so we think the potential is here,” said McMahon.

As for the 19 million commuters and tourists who pass through the space each year, they would just like to see some conveniences to fill their bellies and backpacks.

Anthony McNealy of Harlem wants “breakfast, lunch and dinner, because people travel all day.”

Ian Donaldson, visiting from South Africa, requested souvenirs, and said, “If there was Statue of Liberty things, or things to do with Staten Island or New York, people would buy it.”

- Tara Lynn Wagner

NY1