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The crown's current configuration makes it impossible to evacuate the area in the case of emergency. The NPS has asked companies for bids on fixing the crown so that it complies with building and fire codes.
This move has a lot to do with declining tourism. Weiner, who organized a congressional hearing on the issue last fall, pointed out that there's been a big downturn in visitor numbers: 3.6 million people visited the Statue of Liberty in 2000, but six years later, that number had gone down to 2.5 million.
Of course, while not being able to reach the top probably did cause some travelers to skip Lady Liberty, the increased security and related hassles involved in getting there probably have more to do with the downturn. And that's not likely to be going away.
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I think John Rambow is correct in assuming that 'increased security and related hassles in getting there' are probably the main reasons there has been a decline in visitation. For many years the long line to board the ferry, on a first-come, first-served basis, would disuade even the most stalwart visitor. However, as of January, the new ferry providor, Hornblower, offers 'Reserved Tickets', which allows one to enter the security tent at a particular time. Alas for those who do not pre-order tickets and get the general admission (Flex) tickets.
As for re-opening the crown, Rep. Anthony Weiner is misguided in his efforts. It simply just does not make sense to do this.
Tom Bernardin
Posted By Tom Bernardin on July 8, 2008, 10:45 AM
Well with everything that is going on I don't doubt fr a second that travel is down. Between the cost of traveling and the hightened security measures across the board it makes things difficult especially in NYC.
Posted By NewYorkCityExplorerPass on July 9, 2008, 9:48 AM
I've been to New York five times and every time I go or try to go to the Statue of Liberty, some disappointing even occurs. Not only do I never manage to secure tickets to at least go inside the base, but the security measures are a hassle. Making a tourist feel like a suspect really isn't going to get the United States anywhere.
Posted By Stella on July 9, 2008, 12:04 PM
I believe opening the crown would help tourism. I live in South Texas and have visited Liberty Island several times in the last years, as well as at least three times before 9/11 with different travel companions. The increased security does take longer, however, if one is in New York City, especially on a child's first visit, you go either way. One of the children really wanted to go up in the crown and we would go back just so she could go up. The others were ok not going all the way up, but either way it is a visit not to be missed.
Posted By theresa on July 10, 2008, 1:03 PM
What a shame the times we live in dictate the freedom and excitement ,I remember feeling riding the ferry over and taking that long climb up the spiral stairway up lady liberty to get a short glimpse out her crown. That was memorable!That's what I want my kids to remember.Not fear and worry that something going to happen any minute.The only miguided thing would be not to give people a chance to see out of the lady!!!
Posted By Lester Chase on July 12, 2008, 7:31 AM
I have the chance to go every year for the past 3 years (and next week) but have decided not to because I can't get the top. Would you want to go to the 10th floor of the Empire State Building, or would you rather go to the top?
Posted By Kevin Purvis on July 31, 2008, 10:57 AM