NYC Guy, I think at some point you need to respect her decision to see you as a friend. After all, isn't that what a good, supportive FRIEND is for?
You weren't asking for this advice, but I really think you would be better off switching gears and finding a new girl to date. Make your intentions clear from the beginning that you want to be a romantic interest. I don't think you should cut out women friends entirely, just don't try to date them.
P.S. You're in a good city for dating. 3 Single girls for every 1 guy. The odds are in your favor.
“Inside every cynical person, there is a disappointed idealist”--George Carlin