New York City’s horse-drawn carriages, a fixture of Central Park for over a century and a half, will be prohibited starting June 2028, following the recent passage of legislation by the City Council. The move, motivated by concerns over animal welfare and public safety, brings an end to a tradition cherished by tourists but opposed by activists. The decision comes less than a year after a teenage tourist’s death in a carriage-related incident heightened scrutiny of the industry.

While the ban marks a significant change for the iconic New York attraction, it leaves questions about the future of the more than 150 carriage drivers largely unresolved. Many drivers, who rely on this occupation as their primary source of income, have expressed uncertainty and anxiety over their livelihood prospects. Alexus Lawson, a 28-year-old driver and riding instructor from Queens, said she struggles with how she will care for her horses, including her seven-year-old horse, Starlight, once the ban takes effect.

The legislation requires the mayor’s office to develop a workforce transition plan by April, aiming to assist displaced workers with job referrals, career counseling, and educational opportunities. It also allows for the possibility of compensation, though specific details and benchmarks have yet to be established. City Hall representatives indicated ongoing efforts to create a program that supports carriage owners and drivers through the transition.

Medet Fidan, a 56-year-old former cab driver and current carriage driver, criticized the city’s approach, expressing concern about the loss of businesses, jobs, and long-term livelihoods. “I think the city is leaving us a big mess,” he said. Meanwhile, City Council Speaker Julie Menin, who helped lead the campaign to end the carriage rides, emphasized the need to protect workers during the phase-out process and pointed to the established deadline as a critical step in addressing the issue.

The union representing the drivers has announced plans to mount a legal challenge against the ban once it becomes law, signaling ongoing opposition from industry stakeholders.

Animal welfare advocates and park officials welcomed the legislation. Betsy Smith, president of the Central Park Conservancy, highlighted safety concerns posed by horse-drawn carriages in the busy park environment, describing the ban as a necessary measure to protect visitors, drivers, and horses alike.

Conversely, former President Donald Trump publicly criticized the decision, lamenting the loss of what he described as a “quintessential New York experience.” Trump Tower, located near Central Park, places him in close proximity to the affected area.

As the horse-drawn carriage era in New York City draws to a close, the city faces the challenge of balancing tradition, public safety, animal welfare, and the economic impact on those whose lives revolve around the industry.