By Senator Lydia Edwards
As the new ferry season commences, we reflect on the remarkable progress made and anticipate the exciting developments ahead. Under the Healey Administration, unprecedented investments in water transportation have been realized, illustrating our commitment to enhancing this vital service.
A testament to our dedication is the appointment of David Perry as the inaugural Director of Commuter Ferry Services for the MBTA, marking a significant milestone as the first individual exclusively overseeing ferry operations. This move, among others, underscores our strategic efforts to bolster the ferry system’s efficiency and accessibility.
Notably, this year’s ferry service will commence earlier than usual, with operations for East Boston beginning on April 1st and Winthrop on April 29th, continuing through to November 30th. This expansion of service is a direct response to the community’s needs and is part of broader initiatives spearheaded by Senator Brendan Crighton and supported by myself, Representative Jeff Turco, Representative Adrian Madaro, Chair Aaron Michlewitz, and the Quincy and Lynn delegations.
Our achievements thus far are significant, yet our vision for water transportation extends much further. I was able to secure substantial funding for the Winthrop ferry service and led efforts to pool resources for comprehensive ferry system enhancements across the region. This includes a $1 million fund for each year that the Sumner Tunnel is closed, equating to $2 million, as well as $28 million in bond funding.
These initiatives reflect our collective ambition for a more integrated, accessible waterfront transportation system extending from Gloucester to Quincy.
In recent discussions with the MBTA, promising plans have emerged, including the potential for a fare-free Blue Line and subsidized ferry services during the upcoming tunnel closure. Additionally, the new Low Income Fare pilot program will extend to m passes, ensuring equitable access to transportation services.
However, our advocacy does not end here. We are committed to pursuing an integrated payment system, fare equity across communities, additional vessel procurement to enhance service frequency, and a strategic navigation plan linking Quincy to the Hull/Hingham line with essential stops in East Boston, Seaport, and Long Wharf.
As budget discussions approach, a critical focus remains on securing adequate funding for the ferry system, which currently lacks specific allocation in the state budget. This oversight is being addressed with the administration, emphasizing the ferry’s cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits. The projected funding requirement for the East Boston, Lynn, and Winthrop ferry services is estimated at $5 million.
The start of the ferry season not only heralds a new chapter in our ongoing journey to refine and expand Massachusetts’ water transportation infrastructure but also reinforces our commitment to creating a more connected, sustainable, and equitable transit system for all residents.
Please join me in welcoming David Perry ‘aboard’ as we navigate these promising waters together. Your continued support and advocacy are invaluable as we strive to achieve our collective vision for a robust and thriving ferry system.