Cohen not on board with mayor’s ferry plan

Councilman Andrew Cohen spoke out against Mayor Bill de Blasio’s five-borough ferry plan, calling for an expanded system that offers service to the west Bronx and northern Manhattan. He said that while constituents have not explicitly expressed a desire for a ferry system, people in the northwest Bronx want relief from their stressful commutes.

“What does come up specifically is people complaining about how difficult their commute is. Just getting to the 1 Train is a challenge,” said Mr. Cohen.

The councilman said these conversations are nothing new and the opening of a public ferry on the Hudson River is still far from reality.

“I don’t have a lot of confidence it’ll come on the first go around,” he said. “It’s not a new idea, but timing is everything.”

Upper Manhattan Councilman Mark Levine has also been vocal in his support for utilizing a ferry system to connect New Jersey and 125th Street. The mayor’s plan to operate five new ferry routes along the East River is slated to launch in 2017. One-way trips are expected to cost $2.75.

Salamanca gets support

Mr. Cohen and northwest Bronx Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz have pledged their support for Rafael Salamanca Jr. in the special City Council election for District 17 in the South Bronx.

“He really has the substantive experience to represent,” Mr. Cohen said.

“He has a very solid community record,” Mr. Dinowitz said. “He seemed to be the most on the ball in terms of understanding the community.”

Mr. Salamanca is the district manager for Community Board 2, which represents Hunts Point and Longwood, and is also the president of his local precinct community council. He has so far raised close to $50,000 for his campaign.

Councilwoman Maria del Carmen Arroyo stepped down from her seat during the last days of 2015. She cited family matters as an influence for her decision and has since taken a job in the private sector. According to her district office, Ms. Arroyo has not yet endorsed a candidate.