By:  Hal C Clarke

Bally’s Corporation is making a significant investment in the Bronx, introducing a complimentary shuttle bus service starting on October 1st as part of its acquisition of the former Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point. Brian Crowell, General Manager of Bally’s Golf Links, expressed their commitment to enhancing the patron experience and showing dedication to the community through this initiative.

The Bally’s Bus, which can accommodate up to 20 passengers and is wheelchair accessible, will operate from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, running on a loop approximately every 30 minutes. The decision to provide this shuttle service stemmed from discussions with elected officials and business leaders who stressed the necessity for improved transportation between the Ferry Point golf course and the surrounding Bronx neighborhoods.

Bally’s has ambitious plans to expand its presence on the Ferry Point property, including pursuing a state license to establish a casino.

The official 10-stop shuttle bus route, set to be formally announced, will include the following stops:

Bally’s Golf Links.

Lafayette Avenue and Hutchinson River Parkway.

Cross Bronx Expressway Extension and East Tremont Avenue.

Randall Avenue and East Tremont Avenue.

Lafayette Avenue and East Tremont Avenue.

Bruckner Boulevard and East Tremont Avenue.

Waterbury Avenue and East Tremont Avenue.

2995 East Tremont Avenue.

Westchester Square Subway.

815 Hutchinson River Parkway

Bronx officials and local businesses have warmly welcomed this initiative. State Senator Nathalia Fernandez, who represents part of the district served by the shuttle, praised the addition of more transit options and expressed enthusiasm about connecting Bronx neighborhoods. Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson highlighted the potential for increased tourism and economic growth, aligning with their vision of making the Bronx a hub of opportunities.

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Councilwoman Marjorie Velazquez, and business advocate Bob Jaen all voiced their support for the partnership between Bally’s and the Bronx community, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on small businesses and residents.

The Trump Organization had previously held the contract to operate the Ferry Point links, which was a 20-year lease initiated in 2015. This lease came under scrutiny after the events of the January 6, 2021 Capitol siege, with former Mayor Bill de Blasio aiming to cancel it. Bally’s subsequently acquired this lease in a deal worth ten of millions of dollars, along with plans to purchase the 17-acre site housing the golf course and an additional 17 acres nearby, which they intend to donate to the Parks Department, pending state approval.

Bally’s Corporation boasts a portfolio that includes the ownership and management of 15 casinos across 10 states, a horse race track in Colorado, and offerings in online sports betting and iGaming.

Trump Links, formerly known as Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point, is a renowned golf course located in the Bronx, New York City. Designed by the legendary golf course architect Jack Nicklaus, it opened in 2015. Originally, the project was initiated by Mayor Rudy Giuliani in the 1990s but faced delays until Donald Trump took over.

Under Trump’s ownership, the course was completed and transformed into a championship-level facility, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Trump Links quickly gained recognition for its challenging layout and scenic beauty, hosting prestigious tournaments. However, controversies and legal battles surrounded the Trump brand’s involvement.

In 2021, the Trump Organization sold its contract, marking a new chapter in the course’s history.