News Summary

The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) has approved a $4.86 million federal grant transfer to the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) to restore ferry services between St. Petersburg and Tampa. This funding will help purchase high-speed ferries, aiming for a more reliable and cost-effective service. Plans are in motion for the PSTA to acquire the vessels directly, with hopes to launch the service by 2026. Community support for the initiative is strong, as locals see potential benefits in alleviating traffic congestion.

St. Petersburg

The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) has approved the transfer of a $4.86 million federal grant to the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), signifying a major step toward reestablishing a permanent ferry service connection between St. Petersburg and Tampa. The grant, which was initially secured through a competitive federal program, will be utilized by PSTA to purchase high-speed ferry vessels, enhancing public transportation options across Tampa Bay.

This transfer, however, awaits final approval from the Federal Transit Administration, which will determine whether the funding can be utilized for the intended purpose. The transfer of resources helps the Tampa Bay area retain crucial funding that could have been redirected to other projects across the United States.

Impact on Service and Costs

Unlike previous operations which involved leasing ferry vessels, the PSTA plans to own the new ferries directly. This strategic shift is expected to lead to reduced long-term operational costs and improved service reliability for users. Plans are underway for a Request for Proposals, where PSTA will seek an operating partner by summer, setting the stage for a revamped ferry service.

With an aim to launch this improved service by 2026, PSTA envisions a ferry schedule with departures ranging from every hour to every two hours during peak times, providing greater convenience for both local residents and visitors. Early discussions among local leaders also indicate a potential permanent ferry dock location near the St. Petersburg Museum of History.

Previous Ferry Service and Community Response

The need for improved ferry services arises in the context of the Cross Bay Ferry, which recorded over 72,000 riders in 2024 before ceasing operations in late April 2025 due to contract disputes with HMS Ferries. Hillsborough County officials previously objected to a proposed slower ferry that would have significantly increased travel times from around 50 minutes to approximately two hours, adding urgency to the need for a reliable high-speed service.

The vote on the grant transfer by HART members showed a split opinion; the measure passed with a vote of 8 to 4, indicating a mix of support and skepticism regarding the ferry’s potential impact on traffic and local taxpayers. While some board members raised concerns, others advocated for maintaining federal funding resources within the region, emphasizing its importance for local transit innovation.

Future Plans and Community Support

The PSTA is actively exploring operational changes to improve service and funding structures for the ferry, aiming for a year-round service model. Public support for the new ferry initiative has been palpable among local stakeholders, with many officials acknowledging the significance of the ferry service in easing local traffic congestion and providing a unique travel option across the bay.

If the current plans proceed successfully, the Cross Bay Ferry could once again become operational by 2026, enhancing connectivity and transit options within the Tampa Bay area and appealing to both local commuters and tourists alike.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Christine Miller Appointed as District 4 County Commissioner
Hillsborough County Ends Cross Bay Ferry Partnership
Hillsborough County Ends Cross Bay Ferry Service
Uncertain Future for Tampa and St. Petersburg’s Cross Bay Ferry
Cross Bay Ferry Service in Tampa and St. Petersburg to Close Early
Heartbreaking Incident and Community Growth in Pasco County
Pinellas County Plans to Take Over Cross Bay Ferry Operations
New Developments Shaping Tampa Bay Community

Additional Resources

• I Love the Burg: Federal Grant for Cross Bay Ferry
• Fox 13 News: Cross Bay Ferry Moves Closer to Comeback
• ABC Action News: Cross Bay Ferry Could Be Gone for Good
• Fox 13 News: Cross Bay Ferry Makes Final Voyage
• Google Search: Cross Bay Ferry

Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER

The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.