Central Park Conservancy Calls for Carriage Horse Ban

<img src="https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/2025/08/12/94c92972-1933-43c3-b3c1-8574984c48b6/97ca3f7a58bfd709114313772c0de657.jpg" alt="Central Park Carriage Horse">

For the first time, the Central Park Conservancy is advocating for a complete ban on horse-drawn carriages within the park. Conservancy President Elizabeth W. Smith cited growing public safety concerns and damage to park roadways as primary reasons in a letter to Mayor Eric Adams and City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams.

Smith highlighted recent incidents of runaway horses and emphasized the increasing risk to visitors in the bustling park. She also pointed to the damage caused by carriages to park roads and the drivers' alleged failure to clean up after their horses or follow parking regulations.

The Conservancy supports Ryder's Law, aiming to phase out carriage operations by June 1, 2026. Ryder's Law is named after a carriage horse that collapsed and later died, sparking a debate about animal welfare.

Opposition from the Transport Workers Union

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) strongly opposes the ban, calling the Conservancy's reasoning "outrageous" and accusing the organization of ignoring other issues like the proliferation of unlicensed pedicabs and e-bikes. TWU President John Samuelsen criticized the Conservancy's management of park traffic, suggesting the redesign of park drives has worsened the situation.

The union proposes a horse stable within Central Park, suggesting potential uses for education and therapy, and argues that Ryder's Law would negatively impact around 200 workers in the carriage horse industry.

The debate highlights the conflict between preserving Central Park's traditional aspects, ensuring public safety, and addressing the welfare of the carriage horses themselves. The future of carriage horses in Central Park remains uncertain.