Union protesters assemble outside Bottcher's office, advocating for restrictive measures towards the horse-drawn carriage industry
In the heart of New York City, the horse-drawn carriage industry, a long-standing tradition in Central Park since 1884, is facing a significant push towards its potential demise. The Central Park Conservancy, breaking a long-standing neutrality, has publicly advocated for the banning of the practice, citing growing concerns about public safety, infrastructure damage, and animal welfare.
The latest development in this ongoing conflict was the rally held outside NYC Council Member Erik Bottcher's office. Bottcher, who has been urged to halt his campaign to end the horse-drawn carriage industry, sent a statement saying he has a responsibility to "speak up" about the issue. He believes New York City should evolve with its values today and is ready to engage in dialogue to find a path forward.
Supporters of the industry, such as the Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 100, argue that the practice preserves a historic aspect of the park. The union, which represents about 68 licensed carriage owners and roughly 200 horses with 170 drivers, organised the protest. John Chiarello, the president of TWU Local 100, even suggested building a stable in the park for the horses.
On the other hand, animal rights activists, some politicians, and the Conservancy highlight risks to both animals and public safety. Concerns include horses spooking in the busy environment, which can lead to accidents, repeated regulatory violations, and damage to the park’s roads. Recent accidents and fatalities among horses, such as the death of Lady in Hell's Kitchen on Aug. 5, have galvanized the movement to end the practice.
Advocates propose alternative transportation options like electric antique cars or pedicabs as replacements to protect animal welfare without causing economic hardship for drivers. However, the horse-carriage industry provides work for hundreds of workers, and many drivers, like Ahmet Bilici, consider their horses as part of their family.
The debate is currently intensifying, with the Central Park Conservancy's public advocacy potentially marking a turning point that may lead to the phase-out of horse-drawn carriages in NYC within the next year. The industry's future hangs in the balance, as city officials consider Ryder's Law, which proposes to end horse-drawn carriage operations in the city by next summer.
