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Mayor Menino Announces Major Step Forward for Water Transportation in East Boston

Aug 07, 2012

The City of Boston has been awarded $1.28 million in federal grant money for the purchase of two ferries. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funds will assist in the implementation of ferry service between East Boston, South Boston, and Charlestown. The new service will meet the growing demand for transportation across the Boston Harbor and boost economic opportunity by creating new transit connections between residents and jobs.
“The car is no longer king in Boston, and today I’m proud to announce a new way to move people around the City.  The inner Harbor ferry service will decrease congestion and improve air quality while investing in new affordable transportation infrastructure and adding value to Boston’s waterfront communities.” - Mayor Menino
The BRA will manage the grant funds and the purchase of two passenger ferries. The terms of the FHWA grant require that the City match the $1.28 million by 20%, or $320,000 for a total anticipated purchase price of $1.6 million. Mayor Menino also thanked MassDOT and Secretary of Transportation Richard A. Davey for their assistance and U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood for investing in water transportation in Boston. An operator will be chosen to manage the day to day operations of the ferry through a RFP process this fall. The ferry service is projected to set sail in 2013 with fare and route details currently under review. The new ferry service will enhance Boston’s water transit, a key part of Mayor Menino’s Boston Harbor planning objectives. Additionally plans are underway to rehabilitate the East Boston Marine Terminal in Maverick Square. The FHWA grant is part of more than $363 million awarded nationally to fund a variety of highway improvements, from interstate rehabilitation and reconstruction to technologies that result in improved safety and reduced construction congestion.

 

Related Tags

East Boston ferry Water transportation 

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