Bally’s is betting big on the Bronx, launching a free shuttle bus service starting Oct. 1 as a part of its takeover of the previous Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point.
“Our patrons are at the guts of each decision we make. With this shuttle bus service, we’re confident of elevating their experience and demonstrating our long run commitment to this community,” said Bally’s Golf Links general manager Brian Crowell.
The 20-passenger, wheel-chair accessible Bally’s Bus can be available from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, running a loop about every half-hour.
Bally’s decided to offer a shuttle bus connecting key business corridors and Ferry Point following talks with elected officials and business leaders who emphasized the necessity for transportation between the Ferry Point golf course and property and Bronx neighborhoods.
The gaming firm has plans to expand its footprint on the Ferry Point property, including applying for a state license to open a casino.
Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson noted the Bally’s shuttle would also help boost tourism.Bally’s Corporation
The ten-stop shuttle bus route that’ll be formally announced ;Monday will include:
- Stop 1: Bally’s Golf Links.
- Stop 2: Lafayette Avenue and Hutchinson River Parkway.
- Stop 3: Cross Bronx Expressway Extension and East Tremont Avenue.
- Stop 4: Randall Avenue and East Tremont Avenue.
- Stop 5: Lafayette Avenue and East Tremont Avenue.
- Stop 6: Bruckner Boulevard and East Tremont Avenue.
- Stop 7: Waterbury Avenjue and East Tremont Avenue.
- Stop 8: 2995 East Tremont Avenue.
- Stop 9: Westchester Square Subway.
- Stop 10: 815 Hutchinson River Parkway.
The gaming firm has plans to expand its footprint on the Ferry Point property, including applying for a state license to open a casino. Christopher Sadowski
Bronx officials and merchants applauded the service.
“This district needs more transit options and I’m thrilled to see this shuttle connecting our neighborhoods in addition to bringing more Recent Yorkers to the Bronx,” said state Sen. Nathalia Fernandez (D-Bronx), who represents a portion of the district the shuttle will service.
“The Bally’s partnership to bring about this free shuttle lends strong support to local small businesses and advantages all residents. I’m encouraged by how they made sure community concerns were heard and quickly acted on during this process.”
Sustain with today’s most significant news
Not sleep on the very latest with Evening Update.
Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson noted the Bally’s shuttle would also help boost tourism.
“Certainly one of the most important focuses of our administration is popping the Bronx right into a haven of opportunities. The Bally’s ferry shuttle aligns perfectly with our vision of connecting our small businesses to consumers and spotlighting our cultural establishments,” Gibson said. “It’s about bringing visitors back to the Bronx and promoting economic growth.”
Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and Councilwoman Marjorie Velazquez, who reps neighborhoods along the shuttle bus route, also gave a thumbs up — as did a business advocate.
“The community will profit greatly from this partnership,” said Throgs Neck Business Improvement District executive director Bob Jaen. “We’re proud that Bronx businesses are getting the support and recognition they deserve with this shuttle. We stay up for nurturing future growth in Throgs Neck with the assistance of Bally’s.”
The Trump Organization sold its contract to operate the Ferry Point links — a 20-year lease struck in 2015 that former Mayor Bill de Blasio aimed to cancel after the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol seige — to Bally’s in a deal price tens of thousands and thousands of dollars, The Post previously reported.
Along with taking up the lease to the 180-acre site, which incorporates the wind-swept public course, Bally’s plans to purchase the 17 acres the golf course sits on — and has agreed to purchase one other 17 acres nearby that it’s going to donate to the Parks Department, a deal that may ultimately need state approval.
Bally’s Corporation owns and manages 15 casinos across 10 states, a horse race track in Colorado and offers online sports betting and iGaming.
