HART Approves $4.8M Federal Ferry Grant Transfer to PSTA, Boosting Tampa Bay Transit

Have you heard the news? HART recently approved the transfer of a $4.8 million federal ferry grant to PSTA, a move that is set to boost Tampa Bay transit. But why the pause in service for the Cross Bay Ferry, and what led to this significant decision?

Let's rewind to 2021 when HART secured the nearly $5 million federal grant for ferry expansion in the Tampa area. However, part of the funds remained unspent after the proposed MacDill ferry plans fell through. This left the grant in limbo, waiting for a new opportunity to make an impact on the local transit system.

Fast forward to June 2, when HART's board made a pivotal decision with an 8-3 vote to transfer the funds to PSTA. Proponents of the transfer, including Gil Schisler and Chair Luis Viera, highlighted the importance of utilizing the grant to enhance transit options in the region.

With the grant now in the hands of PSTA, the future of Tampa Bay transit looks promising. PSTA’s plan hints at more frequent, year-round service, with two ferries cutting wait time in half. These plans and the infusion of funds is expected to revitalize ferry services and provide commuters with more efficient and reliable transportation options.

Once sorted, PSTA plans to buy one or two fast ferries and issue an RFP for operation. They aim for service to start by 2026.