New York City Mayor Eric Adams has renewed efforts to end the use of horse-drawn carriages in Central Park by urging the City Council to pass Ryder’s Law, legislation aimed at phasing out horse carriages and replacing them with electric alternatives. The move comes amid growing concerns about the safety of horses, pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers, as well as animal welfare issues highlighted by incidents such as the death of a horse named Ryder in 2022. Adams has signed an executive order to strengthen oversight of the industry, facilitate voluntary license returns, and seek new employment opportunities for carriage drivers, many of whom are members of the Transport Workers Union (TWU).
The proposal has sparked controversy, particularly among the Irish American community historically involved in the carriage business. Labor leader John Samuelson, TWU president, strongly opposes the mayor’s plan, accusing him of betraying workers to benefit real estate developers eyeing the stables’ valuable Manhattan locations. Despite this opposition, Adams emphasizes that the goal is not to erase tradition but to modernize it in a way that prioritizes public safety, animal welfare, and fairness, while preserving the unique character of New York City. The administration is also open to exploring electric carriage programs to maintain the Central Park experience for residents and visitors.
