Overview
- Rep. Dan Goldman urged federal agencies to adopt a NYC Parks plan that would restore views and keep walkways clear.
- The U.S. Park Police said the 6-foot metal barrier is a critical security element that protects Statue of Liberty ferries and millions of visitors.
- The fence separates screened ferry passengers from the general public and, per The Battery Conservancy, now lines nearly 500 feet of the promenade and blocks popular sightlines.
- NYC Parks said it is working with the National Park Service and the NYPD to balance access with safety, citing a contract clause that requires the parties to resolve conflicts.
- Officials said much of the fencing should come down when nearby construction finishes next year, which they say would allow wider access to return.