The Greater Tampa Bay area will be getting a little greater.
The Cross Bay Ferry Service has a proposed plan to extend operations of the ferry, which travels from Tampa to St. Petersburg, to a full 365 days per year. This plan just came closer to reality thanks to a $5 million grant.
The Department of Transportation awarded the grant to the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority on Feb. 14, U.S. Representative Kathy Castor, who represents Florida District 14, recently announced. The Tampa Bay ferry is one of only 11 projects in 11 states to receive this federal grant.
Currently, the ferry is only open from October or November through May. It operates Wednesday through Sunday, with upwards of eight boarding times daily. CFB’s proposed plan would increase this to not only daily service, but also weeknights and full weekend services.
“(The grant) is a great down payment on permanent service,” said Pat Kemp, Hillsborough County commissioner and HART chairperson. “It just goes to show how strong our ferry project is and the value of our region working together.”
Year-round ferry access would provide a reliable option for commuters between Tampa and St. Petersburg. It has another key commuter benefit as well. The ferry would help alleviate traffic on often-congested roadways crossing the bay, including Interstate 275.
Two ferry routes are included in the proposal. One includes the ferry currently operating from the Convention Center in Tampa to Vinoy Basin in St. Pete. It also includes a new one from South Hillsborough County to MacDill Air Force Base.
Advocates for the ferry service tout its many community benefits. Job creation and traffic reduction are a few of the highlights. Other, indirect advantages lie just beneath the surface. It would increase municipal cooperation and connectedness. A potential boon to small and local businesses is anticipated.
“Over 90% of the CBF passengers patronize restaurants, shops, museums and sporting events in these two urban areas,” said Rep. Castor. “This investment is a win-win-win for our community and all of our neighbors.”
Passengers can expect more than just a faster commute. The twin-hull catamaran ferry offers food and a variety of beverages including a full-service bar. Cyclists can bring their bikes aboard and luggage can be carried on at no additional charge. Plus, at 29 knots — equivalent to 33 mph — the 45-minute trip is literally a breeze.
The grant is an encouraging step toward revitalizing crucial infrastructure projects in GTB.
“I look forward to continuing to work with local partners like HART, the City and the County to secure federal funds for multi-modal projects that support our local economy and neighbors,” Castor said.
In other words, keep on the lookout for exciting new local developments.
For more information about booking a ride on the ferry, visit thecrossbayferry.com. To learn more about the year-round proposal, email at [email protected].
