The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) soon will make available $220 million in Passenger Ferry Program and the Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program funding to support passenger ferry service.
The Passenger Ferry Program provides funding for the purchase, replacement or modernization of passenger ferries, terminals, and related equipment. A total of $50.1 million is available, $5 million of which will be awarded for low- or zero-emission ferries and related facilities/equipment.
The Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program provides funding for capital, planning, and operating assistance to support or expand ferry services in rural areas. A total of $170 million is available.
“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,” FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez said. “This funding will modernize and expand transit systems, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and advance equity by making transit available to more people, while maintaining and creating good-paying jobs.”
The deadline for applying is July 17.
Monthly, there are approximately three million ferry riders nationwide.
Earlier this year, FTA awarded $384.4 million through its ferry grant programs. This includes nearly $100 million through the Electric or Low-Emitting Ferry Pilot Program.