The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recently awarded $172.2 million to 35 states and three territories through the Ferry Boat Program to improve ferry service and provide more travel options.
The Ferry Boat Program supports terminal and vessel projects that provide access to areas that lack other means of transportation. State Departments of Transportation receive funding based on a formula and then funding is allocated to individual ferry boat operators based on eligibility.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will provide the program with $912 million over five years and expands eligibility to include ferry maintenance facilities and the purchase of transit vehicles.
The funding also can be used for capital improvements to existing ferry operations such as relieving congestion, increasing the number of riders, and addressing environmental or significant operational concerns.
“In all of the states and territories receiving funding, ferry boat service is an important part of transportation in helping to improve mobility and access to important services in these communities,” Acting Federal Highway Administrator Stephanie Pollack said.
Awards vary from $200,000 to $42.5 million.
The states receiving the largest awards are Washington, $42.5 million; Alaska, $36.4 million; New York, $17.9 million; Texas, $13.3 million; California, $10.2 million; and New Jersey, $10.1 million.