New ferry, named after Jackie Robinson, celebrates the legacy

On January 29, 2025, the New York Waterway proudly christened its latest ferry, which aptly referred to the legendary baseball player and the civil rights pioneer “Jackie Robinson”. The 500-person ferry is scheduled to start operating on January 31 and offer additional transport options during the temporary closure of the Hobaken path station. This ceremony not only underlines the practical role of the ferry, but also recognizes Robinson’s permanent heritage.

At the baptismal ceremony in Weehawken, New Jersey, Jackie Robinson’s granddaughter Sonya Patzke expressed the gratitude of her family for such a recognition. “It is an honor for us to have something like that to honor the legacy of our grandfather. But I hope the next generation will really learn and accept what we have done for society and baseball,” she said. Her words reflect the family’s commitment to keep Robinson alive, both on and outside the baseball field.