Dunedin approves interlocal agreement to restart Clearwater–Dunedin ferry service starting Oct. 9

The Dunedin City Commission voted unanimously to approve an interlocal and operating agreement that will return scheduled ferry service between Dunedin and Clearwater beginning Oct. 9. The agreement covers service from Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2026, and authorizes city participation in the local operational arrangement with PSTA for up to $85,000.

Why it matters: The ferry adds a new public-transportation option between Dunedin, Clearwater (Coachmen Park) and Clearwater Beach and is intended to support tourism, reduce parking pressure downtown and provide a new travel choice for residents and visitors.

PSTA CEO Brad Miller and CFO Debbie Lelis briefed the commission and said the service will operate with two new state-funded vessels. Miller described the initial schedule as hourly departures on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, typically noon–9 p.m., with extended runs for special events and concerts. A smartphone app will allow riders to pay and track vessels. The fare announced at the meeting is $8 per trip.

Commission discussion focused on frequency, special-event operations and coordination for a planned ribbon-cutting. Commissioners praised the partnership; Commissioner Walker said it would be “great for our residents” and Commissioner DeGard called the addition “magnificent.” Local business owners voiced support at public comment, including Nancy Ellen Hale of Bon Appetit, who said the prior ferry service brought “people … so thrilled” who then came downtown.

The motion to approve the interlocal/operational agreement passed on a unanimous vote.

What’s next: Service is scheduled to launch Oct. 9. Staff and PSTA will finalize operational details including dock information, marketing and an upcoming ribbon-cutting; the commission asked staff to work with PSTA on schedule and promotional logistics.

Ending: Commissioners described the ferry as an important transportation and economic-development tool, and asked staff to coordinate a ribbon-cutting that will accommodate commissioners’ schedules.