New York City Mayor Eric Adams has publicly supported a proposal to ban horse-drawn carriages in Central Park, an industry that has operated for over 150 years. The mayor cited safety concerns as the primary reason for his decision, referencing incidents where horses have collapsed or escaped from their drivers.
“While horse-drawn carriages have long been an iconic fixture of Central Park, they are increasingly incompatible with the conditions of a modern, heavily-used urban green space,” Adams said in a statement. “It has become abundantly clear that these horse-drawn carriages no longer work for our city.”
Adams, who is seeking reelection as an independent, sent a “letter of necessity” to the City Council. This letter allows lawmakers to expedite consideration of legislation that would phase out the carriage industry. He also signed an executive order instructing police to focus enforcement on carriages operating outside permitted areas and soliciting fares illegally or blocking traffic.
The executive order further asks city agencies to find new job opportunities for carriage workers and establish a process for returning carriage licenses voluntarily.
“This is not about eliminating this tradition — it’s about honoring our traditions in a way that aligns with who we are today,” Adams stated. “New Yorkers care deeply about animals, about fairness, and about doing what’s right.”
John Samuelsen, president of the Transport Workers Union of America representing carriage workers, criticized the move as politically motivated. “He’s betrayed the blue collar New Yorkers who were relying on him to stand up for their jobs against the real estate developers who want to kill the industry solely to develop those stables into skyscrapers,” Samuelsen said. “He should be ashamed of himself.”
Animal rights advocates welcomed Adams’ announcement. Edita Birnkrant, executive director of New Yorkers for Clean, Livable, and Safe Streets (NYCLASS), commented: “This is a life-saving step for both people and horses, and it makes clear what we and so many New Yorkers have long said: horse-drawn carriages have no place in our city any longer.”
Mayor Adams joins previous mayors in calling for an end to horse-drawn carriages. Former Mayor Bill de Blasio made similar promises but was unable to overcome opposition within the City Council.
“It really is time to get this done,” de Blasio posted on X alongside Adams’ announcement.
In August, the Central Park Conservancy also expressed support for banning horse-drawn carriages due to safety issues.
Council Speaker Adrienne Adams has not indicated whether she will bring the proposed ban forward during this session. Her office did not respond immediately when asked for comment.
