Navigating Mariners Harbor – Staten Island Explorer

Mariners Harbor is a neighborhood located in the northwestern part of Staten Island. It is bordered by Lake Avenue to the east, Forest Avenue to the south, Richmond Terrace to the north, and Holland Avenue to the west. The northwestern section of Mariners Harbor is often known as Arlington. The neighborhood’s name serves as a reminder of its historical role in Staten Island’s maritime trade and transportation.

Map of Mariners Harbor

Mariners Harbor ZIP Codes

Mariners Harbor is divided into two ZIP Codes: 10303 and 10314. The northern part of the area, including Elm Park, Arlington, and parts of Graniteville, falls under the ZIP Code 10303, known as the Mariners Harbor ZIP Code. This region is situated north of Baron Hirsch Cemetery. On the other hand, the southern part of Mariners Harbor lies south of the cemetery and falls under the 10314 ZIP Code. Located at 2079 Forest Avenue, the Mariners Harbor Finance Station serves as the operational facility for the United States Postal Service in the area.

History of Mariners Harbor

Mariners Harbor has a storied maritime history deeply rooted in trade and transportation dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. During this era, it served as a vibrant port facilitating the movement of goods between Staten Island, New York City, and beyond, lending its name from the harvesting of oysters and seafood from the Kill Van Kull waterway.

Prominent shipping and dry dock companies like Bethlehem Steel, which built Navy destroyers during World War II, operated in Mariners Harbor, highlighting its significance in maritime activities. The neighborhood transformed in the mid-1900s as operations shifted from Port Richmond in 1925, with United Drydocks consolidating there in 1929.

While oyster collecting and fishing declined due to pollution, remnants of Mariners Harbor’s nautical heritage remain, like the Mariners Harbor Yacht Club. Canadian businessman Erastus Wiman, who developed the area in 1867 and facilitated rail access, helped spur its growth, even hosting Buffalo Bill’s “Wild West Show” in a local park initially named after him.

Historical sites such as Mariner’s Marsh Park, with ties to the Lenape Indians, and the Bobbie Lewis Jr. Playground (formerly Mariner’s Harbor Playground) reflect the evolving landscape of this community deeply intertwined with New York’s maritime trade over centuries.

Mariners Harbor Attractions

Mariners Harbor offers a variety of attractions and activities for residents and visitors. The neighborhood is known for its maritime heritage and cultural vibrancy, and it provides scenic views of the water due to its waterfront location. One of the key attractions in the area is the Mariners Harbor Library, which serves about 30,000 people and is a part of the New York Public Library System.

Outdoor activities are also popular in Mariners Harbor. The neighborhood is home to the West Shore Little League and Public School 44, which are part of the community. The neighborhood also has a rich history, with the Mariners Harbor Yacht Club serving as a reminder of the community’s nautical past.

There are also many places of worship in the community, including a Baptist church, Catholic church, Seventh-day Adventist, and Masjid Al Noor Islam Society. For those interested in the local community, United Activities Unlimited, Inc. offers programs at their Mariners Harbor Cornerstone location. The neighborhood also boasts a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, providing a mix of urban and suburban feel.

Demographics of Mariners Harbor

Mariners Harbor is characterized by its diverse population, encompassing individuals from a wide array of cultural backgrounds. This diversity fosters an environment rich in different perspectives, traditions, and experiences, contributing to the neighborhood’s vibrant and multicultural community.

Mariners Harbor boasts a population of approximately 27,469 residents, showcasing a dynamic community with a median age of 34.6. Gender-wise, the distribution includes 49.39% males and 50.61% females.

Diving deeper into the demographics, 69.34% of Mariners Harbor residents are US-born citizens, while an additional 18.4% hail from various corners of the globe as non-US-born citizens. Furthermore, 12.26% contribute to the neighborhood’s cosmopolitan flair as non-citizens.

Living in Mariners Harbor

Mariners Harbor provides residents with an urban-suburban mix feel, and a majority own their homes. The neighborhood offers a diverse and dynamic living experience characterized by its maritime heritage, community resilience, and cultural richness.

Staten Island’s overall cost of living index is 163, which is above the national average but lower than the New York State average. It stands out as a more affordable option compared to Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. The neighborhood boasts a range of amenities, including restaurants, parks, and cultural attractions.

Education

Mariners Harbor offers educational opportunities through various institutions and programs. The Creative Learning Academy located at 1890 Forest Avenue provides developmental practices for children ages 2–4 years old, based on the New York City Department of Education’s play-based creative curriculum. It also offers after-school care for children aged 5-13.

The Mariners Harbor Library, part of the New York Public Library system, is located at 206 South Avenue and serves as the thirteenth branch on Staten Island. It offers a range of resources and programs, including NYPL After School, homework help, reading recommendations, and college and career pathways support.

United Activities Unlimited, Inc. offers programs at their Mariners Harbor Cornerstone location, providing out-of-school opportunities and resources for youth.

Real Estate Trends

The real estate market exhibits dynamic trends, providing valuable insights for potential buyers and investors. According to PropertyShark, as of November 2023, the median sale price in Mariners Harbor is $447,000, experiencing a slight decrease of 0.6% year-over-year.

Rocket Homes highlights a noteworthy 8.3% increase in the number of homes for sale in October 2023 compared to September 2023, emphasizing the active nature of the Mariners Harbor real estate market.

Public Transit

Transportation in Mariners Harbor is facilitated by a network of local and express bus routes. The neighborhood is served by the S40, S46, and S48 local bus routes, which operate throughout the day. During peak hours, the S90, S96, and S98 offer limited-stop service as counterparts to their respective routes, ensuring quicker travel times. For those traveling to Manhattan, Mariners Harbor offers express bus services, including the SIM30, SIM33, SIM33C, and SIM34 routes. The express buses offer direct routes to Manhattan, serving commuters who travel from Staten Island to the central business district of the city.

Crime & Safety

The neighborhood of Mariners Harbor falls under the jurisdiction of the 121st Precinct of the New York City Police Department (NYPD). The precinct’s headquarters is situated at 970 Richmond Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10314. According to crime statistics, the 121st Precinct ranked 10th among all precincts in New York City, with a relatively low crime rate of 3.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This ranking suggests that Mariners Harbor enjoys a comparatively safer environment, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the law enforcement officers assigned to patrol and maintain order within the community.

Local Businesses and Economy

The neighborhood’s economic vitality stems from its diverse array of local businesses. These establishments, ranging from small family-run shops to thriving commercial ventures, provide employment opportunities and cater to the varied needs of residents. They contribute to a self-sustaining local economy that intertwines with the area’s cultural identity. This robust mix of retail, service, and hospitality businesses fosters a dynamic commercial landscape that adapts to changing times while preserving the character of Mariners Harbor.

Advancement and Growth

Mariners Harbor is a community that strikes a harmonious balance between preserving its rich heritage and embracing progress. As the neighborhood evolves, thoughtful development initiatives are undertaken to enhance the quality of life for residents. Modern amenities and infrastructure improvements seamlessly integrate with the area’s historic charm, creating an environment that celebrates the past while paving the way for a sustainable future.

Collaborative efforts between local stakeholders and city planners ensure that progress aligns with the community’s values and needs. This strategic approach to development nurtures a vibrant and resilient neighborhood that welcomes positive change while maintaining its distinct identity. Mariners Harbor’s progress is a testament to its ability to adapt and thrive, setting an example of responsible growth that enriches the lives of its residents.

FAQs

What is the history of Mariners Harbor, Staten Island?

• In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Mariner’s Harbor was an active port, crucial for transporting goods between Staten Island, other parts of New York City, and beyond.

What are the boundaries of Mariners Harbor?

• Mariners Harbor is bordered by Lake Avenue to the east, Forest Avenue to the south, Richmond Terrace to the north, and Holland Avenue to the west.

What amenities does Mariners Harbor offer?

• Mariners Harbor offers a mix of urban and suburban amenities, including restaurants, parks, and cultural attractions.

What educational opportunities are available in Mariners Harbor?

• Mariners Harbor offers educational opportunities through various institutions and programs, including the Creative Learning Academy and the Mariners Harbor Library.

What are the demographics of Mariners Harbor?

• In Mariners Harbor, approximately 14.2% of the population identifies as White, 36% as Black, 39.4% as Hispanic, 7.9% as Asian, and 2.5% as Other.

How does the real estate market in Mariners Harbor compare to other areas?

• The real estate market in Mariners Harbor exhibits dynamic trends and is considered more affordable compared to Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Mariners Harbor is a neighborhood that has retained its distinct identity and maritime heritage while embracing growth and progress. Its strategic location along the waterfront and rich history as a vital port have shaped its character over the centuries. Although industries have evolved, the area’s nautical roots remain evident in landmarks like the Mariners Harbor Yacht Club and historical sites.

As Mariners Harbor continues to develop, it strikes a balance between preserving its past and adapting to the future needs of its residents. With a diverse population, an array of local businesses, and a commitment to responsible development, this vibrant community stands as a testament to Staten Island’s resilience and ability to harmonize tradition with modernity. Mariners Harbor’s unique charm and maritime spirit will undoubtedly continue to captivate both locals and visitors alike for generations to come.