Statement from the Central Park Conservancy on Speaker Menin's Support for Romanch's Law

NEW YORK—Following New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin’s announcement of support for Romanch's Law (Intro. 0943), a bill that would ban horse carriages in New York City, a spokesperson for the Central Park Conservancy issued the following statement:

"We are immensely grateful for Speaker Menin's breakthrough leadership on an issue city leaders have been grappling with for decades. It demonstrates a profound commitment to public safety, and reflects the will of more than two-thirds of New Yorkers, who want to see an end to horse-drawn carriages in Central Park.

"Over the past thirteen months, Central Park has seen eight serious horse-related incidents, underscoring the reality that horse carriages are no longer compatible with one of the busiest parks in the country. Romanch’s Law offers a conscientious path forward, one that will treat carriage drivers fairly while addressing a longstanding danger that has become impossible to ignore.

"It is time for New York City to join the rest of the world and phase out horse carriages, in the name of public safety and public health, and in honor of Romanch Mahajan. We’re confident in Speaker Menin's ability to lead a responsible transition, accounting for the well-being of carriage drivers, horses, and everyone else in our Central Park community."

Please see the Central Park Conservancy's website for recent polling on Romanch's Law. Questions may be directed to [email protected].

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About the Central Park Conservancy

The Central Park Conservancy is a private, not-for-profit organization that manages Central Park and is responsible for raising the Park's annual operating budget. The Conservancy’s staff of 400 is responsible for all aspects of the Park’s stewardship, from day-to-day maintenance and operations to continued restoration and rebuilding projects. Additionally, the Conservancy operates the Park’s visitor centers, provides public programs, and serves as a resource for other NYC parks and for public-private partnerships around the world. For more information, please visit centralparknyc.org.

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