New Peconic Bay Ferry Eyed, Panel OKs Study

NYMTC approves $200,000 to evaluate feasibility of ferry routes and terminals in East End of Long Island

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The New York Metropolitan Transportation Council (NYMTC) has approved more than $200,000 to conduct a feasibility study for a potential Peconic Bay ferry service. The independent study, to be completed by March 2028, will evaluate routes and terminal locations in and between Greenport, Montauk, North Sea, Orient, Riverhead, and Sag Harbor.

Why it matters

The study aims to address 'vast, yet predictable' traffic patterns in Long Island's East End, which currently has only one ferry service connecting the north and south points via Shelter Island. A previous attempt at a passenger ferry service between Sag Harbor and Greenport in 2012 was short-lived, but this new study revives hope that new investment could alleviate commuter and seasonal traffic in the region.

The details

The study will assess the navigational feasibility, available dockage, and connectivity to other modes of transportation for each potential ferry route and terminal location, as well as financial and social criteria. Local groups such as shellfish growers, harbor masters, and residents will be surveyed during the process.

  • NYMTC approved the study funding at its annual meeting on February 26, 2026.
  • The independent study is expected to be completed by March 2028.

The players

New York Metropolitan Transportation Council (NYMTC)

A regional council that approved the funding for the Peconic Bay ferry feasibility study.

Peconic Jitney

A privately run passenger ferry service that operated between Sag Harbor and Greenport in 2012 but stalled despite being licensed to operate until November 2027.

Adam S. Levine

The executive director of NYMTC, who stated that the Peconic Bay ferry study is part of the council's efforts to invest in infrastructure that strengthens connectivity, opportunity and resilience for generations to come.

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What they’re saying

“At a time when our nation is approaching its semiquincentennial, it's especially meaningful that we are working collaboratively with our members to invest in infrastructure that strengthens connectivity, opportunity and resilience for generations to come.”

— Adam S. Levine, Executive Director, NYMTC (danspapers.com)

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