Ferry Slip Improvements

The New Jersey Department of Transportation, in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, will soon be constructing and overseeing two waterfront projects at Liberty State Park; installation of a new floating dock used to load passengers on to ferries destined for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and restoration of the historic ferry slips in front of the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal.

Floating Dock for Statue of Liberty Ferries

A new gangway structure, fixed pier and floating dock will be installed south of the park’s historic ferry slips. The new dock replaces a previous barge that partially sank during the winter of 2020. Since then, ferry passengers have been using one of the historic ferry slips at the Central Railroad Terminal. The new facility will enhance service for ferry passengers traveling to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

In addition to serving tourists, the floating dock is designed as a modern, safe resource for waterborne emergency response in the New Jersey–New York region. The barge will have the ability to accommodate up to four ferries simultaneously should the need arise.

Groundbreaking for the floating dock project is planned for 2025.

Historic Ferry Slip Restoration

Restoration of the five historic ferry slips in front of the Central Railroad Terminal is in the planning and design process.