The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) have initiated a Water Transportation Study aimed at exploring potential regional ferry services along the state’s coast. The study, set to last 12 months, will assess new and existing ferry routes, terminal locations, and multimodal access improvements. This initiative aligns with goals outlined in the 2022 Massachusetts Transportation Bond Bill.
Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt emphasized the importance of ferries as a sustainable travel option that can alleviate congestion and connect communities. “Ferries are more than an alternative to driving. They are a vital connection that strengthens ties between communities, reduces congestion, and supports sustainable travel,” she said.
Public engagement is a key component of the study, with events scheduled throughout September and October. These include both in-person open houses across various coastal towns such as Lynn, Quincy, Salem, Gloucester, Chelsea, and Everett, as well as virtual meetings via Zoom. Community input will be gathered through public meetings, workshops, pop-up events, stakeholder discussions, and an online feedback form available on the study’s website.
Further details about the study can be accessed at https://www.mbta.com/projects/water-transportation-study.
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