NewsTampa Bay TimesNovember 2, 2026Hillsborough County
St. Pete Beach considers Merry Pier as potential Gulf beaches ferry hub
Photo: Tampa Bay Times
St. Pete Beach city commissioners are exploring the use of Merry Pier as a potential hub for a regional ferry service connecting communities along Gulf Boulevard. The proposal emerged during a St. Pete Beach City Commission meeting where representatives from Forward Pinellas identified the waterfront landmark as a candidate for waterborne transportation. No specific routes, funding commitments, or construction schedules were announced.
Read the full story at Tampa Bay TimesWhy It Matters
Residents and visitors could see a new waterborne transportation link connecting St. Pete Beach to neighboring barrier island communities along Gulf Boulevard, pending future planning and funding.
Key Facts
Each fact below is taken from the article. Click one to see the exact passage.
Who's Mentioned
OrganizationSt. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce“Business organization involved in regional ferry discussions.”locationClearwater“City included in existing ferry network.”locationTampa“City connected to St. Petersburg by the upcoming ferry service.”PersonNousheen Rahman“Principal planner with Forward Pinellas.”OrganizationClearwater Ferry“Existing passenger ferry service cited as an example.”PersonScott Tate“Mayor of St. Pete Beach.”OrganizationPinellas Suncoast Transit Authority“Regional transit agency.”OrganizationShell Key Shuttle“Former tenant at Merry Pier that was recently sold.”locationMerry Pier“Historic waterfront landmark located at 801 Pass-a-Grille Way.”locationShell Key“Nearby destination accessed via charters from the pier.”locationClearwater Beach“Destination included in existing ferry network.”locationDunedin“City included in existing ferry network.”OrganizationHubbard’s Marina“Marine operator partnering on regional ferry services.”locationGulf Boulevard“Roadway connecting barrier island communities.”PersonJoseph E. Merry“Historical figure associated with Merry Pier's origins.”OrganizationIntellisite Inc.“Approved by commissioners for an $80,137 contract.”OrganizationOffshore Hustler Fishing Charters“Tenant operating from Merry Pier.”PersonCamden Mills“Public Services director for St. Pete Beach.”OrganizationForward Pinellas“Planning agency that discussed the ferry concept with the St. Pete Beach City Co”locationSt. Petersburg“City connected to Tampa by the upcoming ferry service.”locationPass-a-Grille“Location of Merry Pier on the bay side of the island.”