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NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsAugust 28, 2026Hillsborough

Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority receives $16.5 million federal grant for new ferry vessel

The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has secured a $16.5 million federal grant to purchase an additional vessel for the Tampa Bay Ferry service. This funding, provided by the Federal Transit Administration, aims to increase capacity and reliability for transit between St. Petersburg and Tampa by 2029 or 2030.

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Why It Matters

This grant provides the capital necessary to expand regional water-based transit capacity, with the new vessel expected to enter service by 2029 or 2030.

Key Facts

  • PSTA was awarded a $16.5 million federal grant for a new ferry vessel.
  • The funding is provided through the Federal Transit Administration’s Passenger Ferry Grant Program.
  • The total national funding for this program in fiscal year 2026 is $105 million.
  • The new vessel is intended to serve the route between downtown St. Petersburg and Tampa.
  • The new vessel is expected to enter service by 2029 or 2030.
  • PSTA is currently refurbishing two existing vessels, the Bay Breeze and the Bay Clipper.
  • The Bay Breeze is currently at Tarpon Marine Inc. for upgrades.
  • PSTA plans to announce a launch date for the current ferry service later this year.

Who's Mentioned

organizationFederal Transit Administration“Grant provider”organizationPinellas Suncoast Transit Authority“Recipient of the federal grant”personBrad Miller“CEO of PSTA”personSean Duffy“U.S. Transportation Secretary”organizationTarpon Marine Inc.“Facility performing vessel refurbishment”