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Washington, D.C. --- U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) sent the following letter today to David Stafford, General Manager of SeaStreak America, Inc., regarding the potential sell of four ferries located in Monmouth County. The New Jersey congressman said he was troubled by these developments and wanted assurances that ferry service would continue without interruption if the ferries are sold. He writes that contingency plans need to be put into place and that the public needs to be informed of any potential changes.
October 10, 2007
SeaStreak America, Inc.
David Stafford, General Manager
2 First Avenue
Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716
Dear Mr. Stafford:
I have been contacted by numerous constituents regarding ferry service from the municipalities of Atlantic Highlands and Highlands which are part of my congressional district. As you are aware, ferry service from these locations to Manhattan provides a key component of our regional transportation network and is a crucial part of the economy in New Jersey and New York. Furthermore, these particular ferry routes serve thousands of Monmouth County commuters, taking cars and buses off already congested streets. They also provided a key evacuation route from Lower Manhattan on September 11th, 2001.
It is my understanding that while SeaStreak America has experienced significant financial difficulties and is currently disposing of its ferry assets, these routes remain profitable for the company. In addition, local revitalization efforts, coupled with strong growth in the area, signal the continued vitality of ferries as an attractive alternative to commuting to Manhattan via train, bus or car.
Recent reports of SeaStreak’s discussions to sell four ferries located in Monmouth County are troubling. It is imperative that contingency plans be in place to ensure that ferry service continues from Atlantic Highlands and Highlands without interruption regardless of the future disposal of SeaStreak assets. Equally important is making certain that adequate communication be in place to inform ferry riders of any eventualities that may come about regarding ferry service from these locations.
I would appreciate hearing from you on these matters and am available to discuss what my office can do to assist in ensuring the continued operation of ferry service to Manhattan from Atlantic Highlands and Highlands.
Sincerely,
FRANK PALLONE, JR.
Member of Congress
Cc: Chairman Anthony Coscia, Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
Commissioner Kris Kolluri, New Jersey Department of Transportation
Mayor Peter Donague, Atlantic Highlands
Mayor Richard O’Neil, Highlands
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