City Officials Propose Expanded Visitation and New Facilities for Hart Island Families

During a recent public hearing held on October 16, 2025, city officials discussed plans for expanding visitation times and improving accessibility for families visiting Hart Island, New York City’s public burial ground. The discussions drew attention to the need for enhanced facilities and more flexible visitation hours to honor the families of those interred there.

Currently, the Parks Department allows visitation to Hart Island two days each month, with designated slots on Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. This limited access can complicate family visits, especially for those traveling from distant locations. City officials acknowledged that this schedule does not adequately meet families’ needs, particularly during special occasions such as holidays or anniversaries (Source: https://youtu.be/76LYPoUe0Gg&t=5945).

To address these concerns, officials proposed several measures aimed at improving access and comfort during visits. Suggestions included potentially increasing the frequency of ferry services and expanding visitation hours beyond the current schedule. Additionally, plans for a new visitor center were highlighted as a priority, which would include restrooms and seating—amenities that are currently lacking on the island. The visitor center would aim to create a more welcoming environment for families (Source: https://youtu.be/76LYPoUe0Gg&t=1815).

The plans also involve developing tangible infrastructure improvements to make the site more accessible while preserving its contemplative nature. The proposed enhancements, part of a broader concept plan for Hart Island, include a welcome center, shaded seating areas, and a remembrance walk, all aimed at facilitating a more dignified experience for visitors (Source: https://youtu.be/76LYPoUe0Gg&t=3310).

Feedback from family members has been integral in shaping these proposals. Many participants expressed a desire for more opportunities to connect with their loved ones and a need for the site to accommodate more visitors per trip. Extraordinary measures have already been taken, such as increasing visitation capacity from 25 to 35 people per trip and allowing visitors to bring personal items like phones, previously restricted under earlier regulations (Source: https://youtu.be/76LYPoUe0Gg&t=5742).

In conclusion, the public hearing underscored the city’s commitment to improving Hart Island as a respectful resting place for the deceased while enhancing the experience for families visiting their loved ones. Ongoing discussions and future planning will continue to prioritize the needs of those intimately connected to the island’s past and present.