U.S. Department of Transportation Announces $316 Million to Modernize Ferry Service

$49 Million in Federal Grants for Cleaner Ferries

April 18, 2024

Washington, DC - This week, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced$316 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to modernize ferry service and connect rural communities, including $49 million to purchase electric and lower-emitting vessels.

Applications will be accepted through June 17, 2024.

The Electric or Low-Emitting Ferry Pilot Programis complementary to the EPA's Clean Ports Program funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, which will help reduce pollution around ports and port-adjacent communities (a map of these eligible ports is available here).

In response to the announcement, Sierra Club Director of the Clean Transportation for All campaign Katherine García released the following statement:

"Cleaner transportation for all includes making sure ferries across the nation pollute less. Sierra Club is excited to see this important federal funding for cleaner ferries - this represents a critically needed investment in people's health, especially for communities near ferry routes."

"Toxic air pollution from diesel-powered ferries can cause asthma and related health problems. This funding, alongside the EPA's Clean Ports program, will help ensure that the U.S. is electrifying the maritime sector. Cutting pollution from marine vessels is an urgent imperative."

About the Sierra Club

The Sierra Club is America's largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.

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