Central Park visitors support horse carriage rides, oppose NYC’s ban: poll

Opposition to the horse carriage ban is gaining traction.

Recent polling, funded by the horse-carriage industry, reveals that a significant number of New Yorkers who frequently visit Central Park are against a proposed ban on horse-drawn carriages, which has been gaining support in the City Council.

The poll, commissioned by a union representing horse carriage drivers, indicated that 57% of respondents favor keeping the carriages, while 37% advocate for the ban.

This survey, conducted by Slingshot Strategies and supported by the Transport Workers Union, asked participants for their views on the horse carriages after highlighting their historical significance in Central Park, present since its inception.

“Many park visitors regard the horse-drawn carriages as a cherished tradition that contributes to the park’s unique character and provides quality jobs,” the poll indicated before gathering responses. “Conversely, some consider them antiquated, unsafe, or cruel.”

Among the concerns raised was the potential enactment of Ryder’s Law, a proposed bill named after a horse that collapsed on a Manhattan street three years ago and died, igniting protests from animal rights advocates alleging abuse.

This legislation aims to eliminate the horse carriage industry by June 1, 2026.

The interviewers reminded participants that Mayor Eric Adams had recently signed an executive order planning to phase out the industry, citing that horse carriage rides are neither safe nor humane.

The survey also emphasized that horses in the industry receive excellent care, including regular veterinary checks and adequate rest, while highlighting the existence of well-paying union jobs supported by the industry.

According to the survey, banning the horse carriage rides is suggested to primarily favor “real estate developers looking to construct luxury apartments where stables currently are positioned in Manhattan’s West Side.”

The survey concluded with the question: “Do you support or oppose the continuation of horse-drawn carriage rides in and around Central Park?”

A slight majority, 54% of respondents, expressed their support for retaining horse carriages, while 37% opposed them.

In line with the earlier questions, the interviewers provided a statement indicating that Central Park’s design, conceived by Fredrick Law Olmsted in the 1850s, was intended to accommodate horse-drawn carriages, allowing visitors to escape the city’s hustle and bustle while “enhancing the scenery.”

“Would you say that horse-drawn carriages in Central Park represent a timeless tradition that should be preserved, or are they outdated elements that no longer belong?” was the direct question posed to poll participants.

A notable 60% of park visitors affirmed that the horse carriages should be maintained, while 30% agreed they should be phased out.

Participants were also asked if they agree with the assertion that horse-drawn carriages “enhance Central Park’s beauty and charm,” making it a distinct experience for both locals and tourists.

70% of park aficionados concurred that these carriages attract visitors, contrasted with 23% who disagreed.

Moreover, 66% of respondents felt that abolishing horse-drawn carriages would strip away elements that make Central Park distinctive and iconic, while 29% did not share that viewpoint.

<pAt the close of the survey, participants were again asked: “Do you support or oppose eliminating horse-drawn carriage rides in and around Central Park?”

The outcome revealed that just 24% were in favor of a ban, while 60% opposed the idea, with others undecided.

“The public overwhelmingly supports keeping carriage horses in Central Park,” stated TWU president John Samuelsen.

“This poll conveys a clear message that New Yorkers are not convinced by the politicized argument against horses. The carriage horses embody the essence of Central Park — a vibrant tradition that enriches this city with beauty, history, and heart. People want them safeguarded, not eliminated.”

Slingshot Strategies surveyed 738 residents from New York City on behalf of the TWU between September 29 and October 5. The survey’s margin of error stands at approximately 4.4 percentage points.

Polling conducted by animal rights organizations has claimed that the public mostly sides with them on the matter of banning horse carriages, primarily after being informed about alleged instances of equine mistreatment.

According to a 2022 poll by Voters for Animal Rights and the Animal Legal Defense Fund, 71% of New York voters supported a ban following Ryder’s incident.