How does ferry ridership compare to subway ridership in NYC?
1. Subway Ridership Decline and Gradual Recovery Post-2020: Subway ridership experienced a steep decline at the beginning of 2020, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it shows a steady and consistent recovery over time, demonstrating the critical role subways play as a backbone of NYC public transportation.
2. Ferry Ridership Exhibits Pronounced Seasonality: Ferry ridership shows significant seasonal variability, with clear peaks during warmer months (spring and summer). This likely reflects its role as both a commuter service and a recreational option for residents and tourists.
3. Ferry Ridership Recovers Faster Relative to Subway in Early Pandemic: During the initial stages of the pandemic (mid-2020), ferry ridership normalized at a higher level compared to subways. This could be attributed to the perception of ferries as safer outdoor transit options amidst public health concerns.
4. Convergence of Trends in Late 2022 and Beyond: By 2023, subway and ferry ridership trends appear to converge slightly, with subway ridership stabilizing and ferry ridership maintaining its seasonal peaks. This highlights how both modes of transportation adapted to post-pandemic commuting patterns.