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TDC recommends up to $570,000 to sustain and expand water‑ferry multimodal service; third vessel due in July
Summary
The Tourist Development Council recommended up to $570,000 to the county commission to support ongoing water‑ferry operations and overnighting costs for a third ferry; officials said a new vessel is expected in July and would increase capacity and stability.
The Tourist Development Council on Feb. 24 recommended that the Board of County Commissioners consider up to $570,000 to support the county’s multimodal water‑ferry service, including overnighting and operating costs for a planned third ferry.
Tourism Director Elliot Falcone said the new ferry — scheduled for delivery barring delays — is designed to be more stable and seat 67 passengers, with interior seating, heat, air conditioning and Wi‑Fi. “Bearing no bumps in the road, it should be in service in July,” Falcone said.
Nut graf: Council members approved a recommendation up to $570,000 to cover overnight dockage and related costs so the service can operate the third vessel as infrastructure repairs to city piers and landing points continue; staff said fares currently collected by the private operator flow into the ferry revenue account but additional county support is required for expanded and more reliable daily service.
Details: Falcone said the new vessel’s design provides greater stability and a faster, more comfortable ride than current pontoon catamarans. He described up to $350,000 in operating costs (including insurance) and up to $120,000 for overnight dockage contingencies while final landing and overnighting arrangements are implemented. The TDC motion asked the county to fund up to $570,000 to keep expansion on schedule.
Vote and next steps: A motion to recommend up to $570,000 to the county passed by voice vote after a motion and second from council members. Falcone said staff will continue to coordinate landing locations, overnighting facilities and a report to the Board of County Commissioners.
Ending: Council members said ferry operations have helped downtown and waterfront businesses and urged staff to continue to secure stable landing and overnighting arrangements before the third vessel arrives.
