Staten Island Ferry Transformed into Floating Entertainment Venue by Pete Davidson and Colin Jost
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A long-stalled project too repurpose a retired Staten Island Ferry is gaining momentum,with plans unveiled Tuesday evening to transform the vessel into a unique entertainment destination featuring bars,restaurants,a theater,and community spaces.
Nearly four years after acquiring the John F. Kennedy Ferry for $280,100, comedians Pete Davidson and Colin Jost, along with business partner Paul Italia, are pushing forward with their ambitious vision.The project, which has faced legal hurdles and mounting expenses, aims to create a roving party arena and comedy oasis accessible 24/7.
“as crazy as it may seem,we actually really thought it out before we did buy this ferry,” said Italia,owner of The Strand Group and co-owner of the ferry,during a presentation to Staten Island’s Community Board 1.
The reimagined ferry will offer a diverse range of attractions beyond the initially touted bars and restaurants. Plans now include a dedicated theater constructed on the former vehicle parking platform, alongside spaces for community events and exhibits showcasing the ferry’s 56-year history. The vessel, now nicknamed “Titanic 2” by the owners, will be towed between a Staten Island port and Manhattan, operating without its own propulsion system.
“we have now purchased it for the repurposing of it and to be able to bring it back to the public and to the people,” Italia explained. “We’re working on entertainment venues open to the public, ticketed events, and spaces to show the parts of the boat that were once engaging but not readily accessible.”
The change of the ferry has been a slow process, elaborate by ongoing legal disputes. Italia downplayed these issues to the community board, seeking their support for the project. While the board’s role is advisory,its endorsement could significantly influence the city’s decision regarding the venture’s approval.
One point of contention highlighted during the presentation was the use of renderings depicting ferries different from the JFK vessel owned by the group, including a noticeably altered four-decker design. This raised questions about the accuracy of the proposed plans.
The team hopes to secure a six-month annual docking agreement at Pier 1 in St. George, adhering to state regulations. A second location in Manhattan is still under consideration, but the ferry will operate primarily via tugboat, mirroring its movement during a past promotional event where it was covered in a Nike advertisement.
A Mixed Reception from Residents
Despite promises from Italia that the project would not create issues with trash, noise, or traffic, many residents expressed skepticism. concerns were raised about the lack of parking near Pier 1 and the potential influx of tourists.
“I would move, I would really have to move if this came to pass!” exclaimed one resident during the meeting.Another voiced concerns about late-night noise, stating, “If you use three nights, what your saying basically is you’re going to choose three nights that we will not be sleeping.”
Though, some committee members voiced support, citing the potential economic benefits and the past restoration of the JFK.
Addressing Legal Disputes and Timeline
Italia acknowledged a legal dispute with the law firm Nicoletti, Hornig Namazi Eckert & Sheehan, who filed a $13,500 lawsuit against Davidson and Jost this fall. He characterized the issue as a disagreement with a vendor who was “taking advantage of us” and stated that all storage fees have been paid.
Despite the challenges,the team remains optimistic. Italia estimates that the “Titanic 2” could be operational within at least a year, pending approval from the community board and the city. The plans will need to be reviewed by both the Staten island and Manhattan boards before operations can begin.
The project represents a critically important investment in the revitalization of the Staten Island Ferry, offering a unique blend of entertainment, community space, and historical preservation. .
