For the first time in more than 20 years, the cost of a horse and carriage ride around Central Park will increase to improve conditions for horses and assure rider safety.
The logistics of the bill state that horses need to have larger stalls, five weeks off per year, increased visits to the veterinarian, and a heavy waterproof blanket during the winter months. There will also be a limit on where and when the horses can travel. There can be no horse and carriage rides south of 34th Street and rides cannot occur between the hours of 3 AM- 7 AM.
It also calls for a number of safety requirements; carriage must be fixed with emergency breaks and reflective material. Plus, all vehicles must be equipped with a manure catching device.
Of course, all of these improvements will come with a price. The fares will increase $16, from $34 to $50 for the first 20 minutes. Additional fees will be $20 for each 10 minutes after.
The bill has yet to be signed by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, although it is expected that he will sign it early next week. It has yet been confirmed when the new rates will be put in effect.