By the mid-20th century, competition from the New York City Subway resulted in a decline in ferry traffic. Further competition came from the construction of vehicular bridges and tunnels across the East River. The 39th Street ferry service shut down on March 16, 1938, having failed to make a profit for twelve years. The Hamilton Avenue ferry was "temporarily" combined with the Atlantic Avenue ferry in June 1942 because its operation interfered with the construction of the Brooklyn–Battery Tunnel. Not only did the Hamilton Avenue ferry never resume service, the Atlantic Avenue ferry was also discontinued two months later due to a loss of profits. In subsequent years, the South Street Ferry Terminal fell into disrepair, though it remained in operation. Its original multi-colored appearance was replaced by a paint color intended to emulate the copper patina of the Statue of Liberty.
