2. LEVERAGE TOURIST OPPORTUNITIES BY INCREASING CONNECTIVITY

Challenge: With careful planning, communities along the Hudson River Valley could become tourist destinations by leveraging their proximity to population centers in New York City and Albany. To leverage this potential, the Hudson River Valley should improve connectivity options for tourists. Once tourists reach the ferry landing, train station, or bus node nearest their destination, they some need convenient transit access to attractions further inland.

Integrate transportation connections in the Hudson Valley.

• Develop Integrated Fare Systems across Modes (Metro-North, Amtrak, Local Bus, Regional Bus, Ferry): Creating integrated fare options will encourage tourists without cars to visit the Hudson Valley and encourage those with cars to use transit, leading to decreased congestion on local roads.  More expansive regional connectivity, enabled by a Metrocard-type service, could also be explored.
• Expand Regular Bus Service and BRT: New options for bus service and bus rapid transit systems (BRT) linking to Amtrak and Metro-North stations and town centers would improve transportation options for current residents and attract tourists from New York City. Localities should expand these services as appropriate given potential demand.  BRT may be feasible along a number of corridors.  Demand may be greatest across the Tappan Zee Bridge, along the Cross-County Expressway, and on Central Avenue from White Plains to Yonkers.  Routes may exist in Albany that warrant analysis.
• Explore Options to Increase Ferry Commutation and Recreational Services: Look to successful models in New York City and other localities to enhance the tourist experience in the Hudson Valley and create a recreational network of ferries connecting the river towns and attractions.  For example, the S.S. Columbia is currently being restored and could be an attractive recreational ferry service. We should also explore the possibility of adding new feeder ferry routes to train stations or new services that travel directly to New York City. 
• Ensure Tappan Zee Solutions Support Hudson Valley: The replacement of the Tappan Zee Bridge will provide a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand intermodal options and pursue transit-oriented development zoning strategies in Orange and Westchester counties. Our leaders should work to make sure that the new Tappan Zee makes the most of these opportunities, including through consideration of a Metro-North extension, bus lanes, and/or bike/pedestrian lanes on the new bridge.
• Encourage Options for Biking and Walking: Continue to support and expand opportunities for walking and cycling.  This can be done by installing bike amenities and pedestrian design elements in and around Metro-North and Amtrak train stations. Explore options for allowing bikes on buses, creating bike maps and promotional material to guide guests to walkable areas and cycling trails.