In preparation for the first ever electric ferries in the United States, San Francisco Bay Ferry has received nearly $2 million for new infrastructure at the Oakland Ferry Terminal.
The U.S. Department of Transportation announced last week that over $175 million in funding under the Federal Highway Administration’s Ferry Boat Program would be allocated to 35 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa. The Bay Area’s San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority, which operates SF Bay Ferry, and Golden Gate Ferry are two local recipients.
“We make life easier when we make the transportation of people and products smoother,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
According to the department, the funding is eligible to construct and operate ferry boats, ferry terminals, and ferry maintenance facilities.
SF Bay Ferry plans to use this new source of funding to prepare its Oakland Terminal for new electric ferries. The agency is working to introduce the nation’s first ever electric ferries.
“Electric vessels just require less maintenance. There’s fewer moving parts and it’s much easier to keep them maintained. Electricity can be expensive, but you have a little more control over it, versus super volatile fuel prices,” said Thomas Hall, director of operations and customer service for the SF Bay Ferry. “In addition to that, it’s the moral thing to do for the planet to protect our climate future. I think as a staff, we’re all on board with that. Our board has been very forceful with that.”
The agency has already awarded a contract to shipbuilding company All American Marine for three 150-passenger battery-electric vessels and contracted with Nichols Brothers Boat Builders for two 400-passenger battery-electric vessels.
The new electric vessels are expected to enter into service as soon as 2027, creating new short-hop routes between San Francisco’s Ferry Building, Treasure Island, and Mission Bay.
In addition, the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District received just over $800,000 that will be used for their own service.
Like many other transit agencies, SF Bay Ferry has to find ways to address budget shortfalls. They hope the large investments in a new technology will be more efficient, environmentally responsible, and better for the Bay Area in the long term.
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