$22.2 million available for latest round of Ferry Boat Grants

One of the most successful federal programs for upgrading and improving the U.S. marine transportation  has been the Ferry Boat Discretionary Grant Program. Administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the Ferry Boat Discretionary Program provides grants to build new or upgrade existing public ferries and construct ferry terminals. The FHWA is now accepting applications for the latest round of grants, with about $22.2 million in funding available through appropriation in Fiscal Year 2012.

There are no Congressional earmarked projects this go round, meaning that the full $22.2 million is available through the competitive process. Federal funds can cover up to 80% of the cost of a project.

In FY 2011, some $43.9 million was awarded for 39 ferry projects.

Applications will be accepted until January 6, 2012.  Public entities, such as the Staten Island Ferry or Washington State Ferries, that own or operate ferries or terminals are eligible to apply for funds, as well as certain private ferry operators if the ferry is “majority publicly owned.”

You can find out more here:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/discretionary/fbd2012info.htm

December 6, 2011