For over 150 years, horse-drawn carriages have been a staple of Manhattan’s Central Park, surviving changing times and criticism from animal rights advocates. However, the Central Park Conservancy, which manages the park, has recently endorsed a proposal to phase out the carriage industry by next summer, citing concerns over public safety and the park’s increasingly crowded pathways. The conservancy highlighted incidents involving spooked horses and accidents, arguing that the mix of horses with bikers, runners, and pedestrians creates unpredictable and hazardous conditions. Other cities like San Antonio, Chicago, and Montreal have already banned or phased out horse carriages.

The carriage industry defends itself by emphasizing the regulated care and treatment of the horses, noting that the number of horses has remained stable for decades and that the animals receive veterinary inspections and rest periods. Industry supporters also argue that carriage rides align with the park’s original design and offer a unique way to experience Central Park. Meanwhile, animal rights groups continue to raise concerns about horse welfare, including risks of injury, overwork, and inadequate living conditions. The debate remains unresolved politically, with city officials acknowledging the sensitivity of the issue and the need for further discussions.