ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – After the Cross Bay Ferry wrapped up its last voyage final week, some riders had been left questioning whether or not the favored Tampa Bay space commuter service would ever return. Now, Pinellas County leaders are working to do exactly that, and this time, they wish to personal the boats.
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The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is charting a brand new course for the way forward for the ferry. As a substitute of leasing vessels from an outdoor vendor, officers hope to purchase not less than one — probably two — ferries outright. Their plan: Buy the boats, then rent a contractor to function the service.
RELATED: Cross Bay Ferry makes last voyage with future prospects nonetheless afloat
“The purpose can be to extend ridership and decrease subsidies,” mentioned PSTA CEO Brad Miller throughout an govt management assembly this week.
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That assembly marked the primary main step within the effort. The chief board is now recommending accepting an almost $5 million federal grant – cash at the moment sitting with Hillsborough Space Regional Transit (HART) – to fund the acquisition. HART nonetheless has to vote to switch the unused grant to Pinellas.
In the event that they don’t, Miller mentioned, the funds will revert again to the federal authorities and will find yourself benefiting one other metropolis completely.
“If we may benefit from this federal grant and buy the boats, that would cut back the prices,” Miller defined.
What’s subsequent:
Ought to the grant fall by way of, PSTA mentioned it will nonetheless transfer ahead, however would probably problem a request for a ferry operator who can provide their very own boat, much like the previous mannequin.
HART’s vote is scheduled for June 1.Â
For now, ferry supporters stay hopeful the scenic journey throughout Tampa Bay isn’t gone for good and {that a} extra everlasting resolution is simply on the horizon.
The Supply: The data on this story was gathered by FOX 13’s Genevieve Curtis.Â
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