The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently awarded $384.4 million in grants to 11 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands for expanding and improving ferry service.
Funding can be used to transition to zero-emission transportation, build new terminals and docks, expand fleets, and replace old vessels.
Funding was awarded to 23 projects through three FTA competitive grant programs.
The Passenger Ferry Grant Program awarded $34.4 million to eight projects in six states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The project supports capital projects in urbanized areas that establish new ferry services or repair and modernize ferry vessels, terminals, facilities, and equipment.
The Electric or Low-Emitting Ferry Pilot Program awarded $97.6 million to seven projects in seven states. The program funds electric or low-emitting ferries and charging equipment.
The Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program awarded $252.4 million to eight projects in four states. The program provides funding for ferry service in rural areas.
The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities received six grants totaling nearly $286 million to build passenger ferries and make dock upgrades in several communities.
The Maine Department of Transportation received $28 million to build a hybrid-electric vessel to replace a 35-year-old vessel.