The Department of Transportation unveiled plans to allocate $220 million to support the modernization of ferry systems across the United States through the Passenger Ferry Program and the Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program.
“Passenger ferries provide critical and cost-effective travel for people throughout the United States, but they currently face a backlog of state of good repair and safety investments,” Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Administrator Nuria Fernandez said in a Transportation Department press briefing on May 18.
She said the funding will modernize and expand transit systems, cut greenhouse gas emissions and advance equity by making transit available to more people as it maintains and creates good-paying jobs, the release said.
The $220 million will be used for improvements that include constructing new ferry terminals, acquiring modern and eco-friendly vessels, and implementing advanced technologies to enhance safety and passenger experience, according to the release. Moreover, priority will be given to projects that prioritize equity and access, ensuring that underserved communities have improved connectivity and access to essential services.
Through the Passenger Ferry Program, the FTA supports the purchase, replacement or modernization of passenger ferries, terminals and related equipment. Of the $50 million available, $5 million has been set aside for low- or zero-emission ferries and related facilities/equipment.
The competitive grant program Ferry Service for Rural Communities provides funding for essential ferry services in rural communities. It provides planning, capital and operating assistance to support or expand ferry services in rural areas. The grant program has $170 million available, the release said.
The Transportation Department previously allocated funds through the Electric or Low-Emitting Ferry Pilot Program, according to a press release.
Numerous states/territories have received funds for projects that subsidize the purchase of electric or low-emitting ferries and other emissions-reducing measures from existing ferries. They include Alaska, Maine, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Orleans, Maryland, Washington State, California, Georgia, North Carolina and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
