Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program - IIJA § 71103
What's New
- On January 26, 2023, FTA announced $384.4 million in grant awards to 23 projects in 11 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands to expand and improve the nation’s ferry service, as well as accelerate the transition to zero emission transportation. The funding will benefit millions of Americans who depend on coastal waters, rivers, bays, and other bodies of water to connect to their communities. Increased funding from the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help replace old vessels, expand fleets, and build new terminals and docks, as well as boost service in rural areas and support the transition to low and zero-emission technologies.
- FTA awarded $252.4 million under the FY22-23 Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program to 8 projects in 4 states
Overview
The Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program provides competitive funding to states to ensure basic essential ferry service is provided to rural areas.
Eligible Recipients
States
Eligible Activities
Eligible activities include capital, planning, and operating assistance for a ferry service that operated a regular schedule at any time during the five-year period ending March 1, 2020 and served not less than two rural areas located more than 50 sailing miles apart. Funding is also available for ferry service that serves at least two rural areas with a single segment over 20 miles between two rural areas that is not otherwise eligible for funding under the Passenger Ferry Program.
Match
The maximum Federal share for capital and planning projects selected under the Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program is 80 percent of the net project cost. The maximum Federal share for operating projects selected under the Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program is 50 percent.
Statutory Reference
IIJA § 71103