Frog Ferry proposes Portland waterway transit solution to combat congestion

A bold vision for a new ferry service in Portland took center stage at the Oregon State Legislature's Joint Committee on Transportation meeting on March 11, 2025. Susan Bladholm, founder and president of Frog Ferry, presented a compelling case for reintroducing passenger ferries to the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, emphasizing the urgent need for innovative transportation solutions amid worsening congestion and air quality in the region.

Bladholm highlighted the project's potential to alleviate traffic, noting that 135,000 vehicles cross the I-5 bridge daily, with a significant number heading to downtown Portland. "We believe we need to do things a little bit differently in Portland," she stated, advocating for a public ferry system that would operate alongside existing transportation infrastructure rather than compete with it.

The proposed ferry service aims to connect key locations, starting with a pilot project from Cathedral Park to Riverplace, utilizing existing city docks. Bladholm underscored the community's support, citing a survey from OHSU that revealed 78% of employees living within half a mile of the proposed stops expressed interest in the service.

The estimated cost to launch the ferry service is $20 million for the first year, which includes operating a vessel and utilizing city docks. Bladholm is seeking funding through the state’s Passenger Ferry Grant program, with hopes of securing half of the necessary funds from state and city sources.

Frog Ferry's initiative not only aims to enhance public transit but also addresses broader issues such as emergency preparedness and environmental sustainability. Bladholm pointed out that ferries could serve as vital transportation links in the event of a major disaster, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging people to leave their cars behind.

As the committee members listened intently, the discussion underscored the potential for a revitalized riverfront and a new chapter in Portland's transportation landscape. The next steps involve securing funding and moving forward with the pilot project, which could pave the way for a more efficient and eco-friendly transit option for the city.