A study estimates creating a Staten Island Ferry "tourist-only" fare could bring New York City millions of dollars in annual revenue.
The city's Independent Budget Office says a $4 tourist fee could bring in $2.4 million a year. That's taking into account the 1 million additional riders expected to visit Staten Island for The Wheel and Empire Outlets shopping center slated to open in 2016.
The study proposes two payment methods, the $4 fee for tourists and a MetroCard for all who live outside Staten Island.
The study was requested by Borough President James Oddo.
He tells the Staten Island Advance he's not pushing the concept. He wanted the study to get an objective analysis on how much money could be generated by additional out-of-towners using the ferries.
