In an effort to boost the nation's ferry systems, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has earmarked $175 million into the Ferry Boat Program (FBP), as per an announcement made earlier today. This Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) initiative aims to revamp and expand ferry services in 35 states, reaching as far and wide as Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa.
The allocation of funds will serve to enhance ferry operations across the country, facilitating commutes, fostering tourism, and bolstering local economies. The FBP's primary goal is to construct and operate ferry boats, alongside terminal and maintenance facilities. According to the official statement, the funding targets both vehicular and passenger-only ferries on routes where alternatives such as bridges or tunnels are impractical.
The FBP operates across a range of regions, from the waters of Alaska to ports along the Gulf Coast. Expanding transportation options in these areas plays a role in both passenger movement and the functioning of regional supply chains.
As detailed by the FHWA, the Ferry Boat Program serves to close transportation gaps, providing essential links to locales that would otherwise be isolated. Utilizing ferries helps alleviate highway congestion and supports increased ridership. State Departments of Transportation will distribute the federal funds to ferry operators to address various needs, such as vessel procurement and facility improvements. The overall objective is to improve water-based transportation across the country, as highlighted in the official announcement.
