New Ferry Boat Gets Federal Funding

Ohio has landed a $2.7 million federal grant for a new ferry boat serving a Lake Erie resort island.

The Federal Highway Administration grant was awarded to a partnership of the Kelleys Island ferry operator and Erie County to build a 160-foot vessel.

According to The Plain Dealer, the diesel-powered ferry will serve increasing demand on the route between Marblehead and Kelleys Island. The line handles about 175,000 passengers and 60,000 vehicles annually.

The boat is estimated to cost $6 million. The grant announced Wednesday is in addition to $1 million in federal funds received last year. The ferry operator is expected to cover most of the remaining cost.

A second grant for $790,000 will be used to improve a terminal dock at South Bass Island.