Bally relies heavily on the free Bronx shuttle service to Ferry Point

Bally’s is betting big on the Bronx, introducing free shuttle bus service starting Oct. 1 as part of its takeover of the former Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point.

“Our customers are at the heart of every decision we make. We are confident that this shuttle bus service will enhance your experience and demonstrate our long-term commitment to this community,” said Brian Crowell, General Manager of Bally’s Golf Links.

The 20-passenger, wheelchair-accessible Bally’s Bus is available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and loops approximately every 30 minutes.

Bally’s decided to provide a shuttle bus connecting major commercial corridors to Ferry Point after discussions with elected officials and business leaders who emphasized the need for transportation between Ferry Point Golf Course and properties and neighborhoods in the Bronx.

The gaming company plans to expand its footprint at the Ferry Point property, including seeking a state license to open a casino.

The 10-stop shuttle bus route, which will be officially announced on Monday, includes:

• 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.

Bronx officials and merchants praised the service.

“This district needs more transit options and I am pleased that this shuttle will connect our neighborhoods and bring more New Yorkers to the Bronx,” said State Senator Nathalia Fernandez (D-Bronx), who represents part of the district. The shuttle will be served.

“Bally’s partnership to create this free shuttle is a strong support for local small businesses and benefits all residents. I am encouraged by how they ensured that community concerns were heard and responded to quickly throughout this process.”

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson noted that the Bally’s shuttle would also help boost tourism.

“One of the key focuses of our administration is transforming the Bronx into a haven of opportunity. The Bally Ferry Shuttle fits perfectly with our vision of connecting our small businesses with consumers and shining a spotlight on our cultural institutions,” said Gibson. “It’s about bringing visitors back to the Bronx and promoting economic growth.”

Rep. Michael Benedetto and City Councilwoman Marjorie Velazquez, who represent neighborhoods along the shuttle bus route, also gave a thumbs up — as did a business representative.

“The community will benefit greatly from this partnership,” said Bob Jaen, executive director of the Throgs Neck Business Improvement District. “We are proud that with this shuttle, businesses in the Bronx will receive the support and recognition they deserve. We look forward to driving Throgs Neck’s future growth with the help of Bally’s.”

The Trump Organization sold its contract to operate the Ferry Point connections – a 20-year lease signed in 2015 that former Mayor Bill de Blasio sought to terminate after the siege of the Capitol on January 6, 2021 – to Bally’s worth several ten million dollars, The Post previously reported.

In addition to taking over the lease on the 180-acre site, which includes the windswept public course, Bally’s plans to buy the 17 acres on which the golf course sits – and has agreed to buy another 17 acres nearby, which will donate it to the Parks Department, a deal that would ultimately require approval from the state.

Bally’s Corporation owns and manages 15 casinos in 10 states, a horse racing track in Colorado, and offers online sports betting and iGaming.