Uncertain Future for Tampa and St. Petersburg’s Cross Bay Ferry

News Summary

The Cross Bay Ferry service between Tampa and St. Petersburg is facing potential termination due to discussions by Hillsborough County officials. With over 72,000 riders last year, the ferry has been a beloved transportation link. However, plans could change drastically if a new, smaller vessel is introduced, potentially doubling trip times. The community’s sentiment is mixed as future transportation options are explored amid uncertainty surrounding the ferry’s fate.

Tampa and St. Petersburg’s Cross Bay Ferry Facing Uncertain Future

The smooth sailing of the Cross Bay Ferry service, which has been a favorite transportation link between Tampa and downtown St. Petersburg for four years, is currently facing some rocky waters. Hillsborough County officials are mulling over plans that could lead to the abrupt end of this popular ferry service, and that shake-up could happen as soon as tomorrow!

The Situation at Hand

Commissioner Harry Cohen has been vocal about the potential termination of the ferry service contract, expressing that the ferry could be docked for good by the end of the week. It’s a thought that leaves many commuters puzzling through their options, as this ferry has become cherished by locals and tourists alike over the past several years.

To make matters more complicated, current discussions indicate that if the service does continue, it may be on a much smaller vessel, significantly changing the experience for riders. This proposed new boat could potentially double the trip time from one hour to an estimated two hours, which, according to the original contract terms, simply won’t float.

A Shift in Plans

Originally, the ferry was set to service the busy waterways until the end of the year. However, the new developments have pushed this deadline up by five months, moving the end date to April 30. It leaves a lot of uncertainty in the air and has raised eyebrows among ferry fans who enjoy the quick and scenic ride across the bay.

With the current contract set to terminate, any funds from participating partners are expected to be refunded, adding yet another wrinkle to this ongoing situation. Though there’s disappointment over the potential end of the ferry, Cohen emphasized that there is still hope for alternative transportation options down the line.

The Numbers Speak Volumes

In a year that saw over 72,000 riders using the Cross Bay Ferry, it’s evident that the service has gained traction as an increasingly favored way to travel in the region. Yet, the operation run by HMS Ferries has reportedly found itself in default due to its proposal for a slower ferry service, raising fears about the convenience and reliability of any potential substitutions.

Community Responses

The sentiment within the community has been mixed. While some residents remain unaware that such a ferry service even exists, others who have used the ferry often appreciate its convenience and the scenic vibe it offers during rides. As the clock ticks down to a potential termination, some are left feeling like a two-hour ferry ride is less than ideal, especially when compared to land traffic during the busy weekdays.

Looking Ahead

Meanwhile, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is considering stepping in and exploring options to purchase and operate the ferry service starting in October. Their hope is to secure funds from an unused federal grant to help keep the service afloat. City officials in St. Petersburg are also brainstorming alternative ferry options, showing that even if the current service goes under, there are plans on the table to keep the ferry dream alive.

Final Thoughts

As Hillsborough County’s Board of Commissioners is set to have an important meeting tomorrow to further discuss the ferry’s fate, the future of this beloved transportation staple hangs in the balance. Residents are eager to see how this will unfold, with many wishing for a positive outcome that would ensure the waters remain a bustling highway of transportation rather than a closed dock.

Whether you’re a commuter, a sightseer, or just someone who enjoys the charm of a ferry ride, stay tuned, because the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the future of ferry travel across Tampa Bay!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Pinellas County Plans to Take Over Cross Bay Ferry Operations

Additional Resources

• WTSP: Cross Bay Ferry Closing Ending
• Wikipedia: Cross Bay Ferry
• WFLA: Vote Scheduled to End Cross Bay Ferry Service
• Google Search: Cross Bay Ferry
• Fox 13 News: Cross Bay Ferry Could be Coming to an End
• Google Scholar: Cross Bay Ferry
• Wild 94.1: Cross Bay Ferry Service Ending Soon
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Cross Bay Ferry
• ABC Action News: Cross Bay Ferry Contract Likely to End
• Google News: Cross Bay Ferry Ending