The Orange County Legislature approved a resolution opposing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s decision to terminate New York City ferry operations that served Hudson Valley communities, asking state and regional leaders to press the MTA to restore service.

Resolution details: the measure, introduced and explained on the floor, directs copies be sent to Governor Kathy Hochul, state senators and assembly members representing the Hudson Valley, local elected officials and county colleagues in Dutchess County and the MTA. Sponsors described the ferry as a transportation and tourism link that supports cross‑river commuting and local economies.

Support and context: sponsors and other legislators described recent community rallies in Beacon and other advocacy efforts; multiple elected officials from the region — including city and county leaders — have asked the MTA to reconsider. Legislator supporters said the ferry provided access to jobs, encouraged tourism and strengthened riverside economies and called the proposed termination “timely” to oppose while the MTA accepts public comment.

Action: the legislature voted in favor of the resolution on a voice vote and the motion carried. Legislators urged county residents and elected counterparts in neighboring counties and cities to join the advocacy effort.

Ending: sponsors said they would circulate the finalized resolution to state and regional officials and that local stakeholders planned public rallies and comment submissions to the MTA.