Mayor Bill de Blasio has reached a compromise with horse-carriage drivers and the Teamsters union, significantly restricting their operations to Central Park and reducing their numbers from about 180 to 110 by December, with a further reduction to 75 once new stables are constructed in the park by 2018. This agreement, pending City Council approval, aims to address long-standing animal welfare concerns by confining horse-carriage operations to the park and reducing the number of licensed horses. Additionally, to lessen competition, pedicabs will be prohibited from operating in Central Park south of the 85th Street Transverse, a decision that could significantly impact their business.
The deal marks a shift from de Blasio’s initial campaign promise to completely ban carriage horses from the city, a stance that had garnered significant attention and support from animal-rights groups. While the agreement has been met with some disappointment from activists, who argue that it doesn’t fully address the inhumane conditions faced by carriage horses, it represents a compromise aimed at preserving a part of New York’s heritage while attempting to improve the conditions for the horses involved. The final details of the legislation are yet to be worked out, with key stakeholders and advocacy groups keenly awaiting the outcome.
For more information:
https://nypost.com/2016/01/18/de-blasio-strikes-deal-to-cut-number-of-horse-carriage-drivers/