Question

those systems, the staten island ferry provides service to tens of thousands each day. this integral ferry transports pedestrians between the northern end of staten island and the southern tip of manhattan. historically, some form of ferry service between these points has existed since the early 1800s. initially operated by private individuals and companies, the staten island ferry came under the city’s control in 1905.
transportation to and from manhattan, an island, can be limited; car routes without bridges or tunnels, for instance, are nonexistent. so, to avoid the drive and potential traffic delays that might ensue, the staten island ferry is a sensible choice. it is a scenic option, as well: landmarks like ellis island and the statue of liberty are within sight of the route. moreover, thanks to this ferry’s long years of service, a journey on this vessel brings to mind the early days of travel in the region.
which statement best summarizes the central ideas of the passage?
like other ferries, the staten island ferry carries passengers, vehicles, and cargo between two points; this vessel is a recent addition to new york city’s ferry fleet.
new york city’s ferry systems are part of a nationwide network of ferries that help to cut down on crowded highways; each ferry in these systems stops at ellis island daily.
the staten island ferry is the most popular option for commuters in the area; it makes the trip to and from manhattan much quicker than the available car routes.
the staten island ferry has a long history of providing transportation between manhattan and staten island; it offers an alternative to driving and potential traffic delays.

Explanation:

To find the statement that summarizes the central idea, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: The passage says the ferry has existed since the early 1800s, so "recent addition" is wrong. Also, it doesn't mention carrying cargo or being part of a nationwide network. Eliminate.
• Option 2: The passage doesn't say the ferry systems are part of a nationwide network or that each ferry stops at Ellis Island daily. Eliminate.
• Option 3: The passage doesn't claim it's the "most popular" or that it makes the trip quicker than car routes. It says it's a sensible choice to avoid traffic, not quicker. Eliminate.
• Option 4: The passage states the ferry has existed since the early 1800s (long history), provides service between Staten Island and Manhattan, and is a sensible choice to avoid driving (alternative to driving). This matches the central idea.

Answer:

D. The Staten Island Ferry has a long history of providing transportation between Manhattan and Staten Island; it offers an alternative to driving.