Grants Will Support Passenger Ferry Systems in Hingham and Salem

Washington, DC - United States Senators Edward J. Markey and Elizabeth Warren, along with Representatives Stephen F. Lynch and Seth Moulton, announced today that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded over $9 million in federal grants to support passenger ferry systems in Hingham and Salem, Massachusetts.  The grants, which were awarded through the DOT's Passenger Ferry Grant Program, include $6,050,000 to build a new ferry dock in Hingham and $3,400,000 for the City of Salem to acquire a new ferry vessel. 

"This federal funding to modernize our ferry systems is terrific news for Hingham, Salem, and for the entire coastal region," said Senator Warren. "I'm committed to ensuring that the federal government is a strong partner for our cities and towns in Massachusetts, and that means supporting key infrastructure projects like these, which will improve families' transit options and help support our local economy."

"The home of the nation's first National Historic Maritime Site deserves a ferry of world-class distinction," said Senator Markey. "This injection of federal funds will help ensure those who live, work, and visit Salem have another reliable, environmentally-friendly transportation alternative.  I thank Mayor Driscoll for her commitment to expand fun, efficient, clean transportation options for our constituents."

"Thousands of South Shore commuters rely on the Hingham/Hull Ferry each week as a reliable, enjoyable and environmentally-friendly way to get into Boston," said Representative Lynch. "I am very pleased that the U.S. Department of Transportation has granted $6.5 million to make vital improvements to the dock at the Hingham Ferry Terminal. This will allow the Terminal to operate more smoothly and will triple the life span of the dock. And most importantly, these updates will ensure that the ferry is accessible to all riders by bringing the dock into full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board guidelines. My thanks to my colleagues Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey for their support in helping us to get this done."

"Access to Salem's historic harbor and waterfront is one of the many things that makes our community special," said Representative Moulton. "I thank the DOT for recognizing that additional ferry service is crucial to the continued economic growth of Salem, and the overall quality of life of our local commuters. I look forward to continuing to partner with Senator Warren, Senator Markey, and Mayor Driscoll to enhance economic opportunity in Salem."

"I couldn't be more pleased that our grant application to DOT has been successful," said Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll. "Expanded and additional ferry service has been one of our priority goals for helping to mitigate traffic and add more commuter options for Salem residents and visitors alike. As we revitalize and reconnect with our historic harbor and waterfront, ferry service is a critical part of the economic growth and strength of our community. For centuries Salem has looked to the sea and seen opportunity. The awarding of these funds will only further that connection, to the benefit of all who live in or visit our city. I am grateful to all the City staff that worked on this grant application and to our federal partners, including Senator Warren, Senator Markey, and Congressman Moulton, whose tireless efforts have made these funds available to us."

More information about the DOT's Passenger Ferry Grant Program is available here.

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