Amid the unconscionable frustration that accompanies the usual impediments to common sense and modern transit around here, there has been a notable ray of regional hope. Ferry tales can come true.
By all accounts, the experimental Cross-Bay Ferry, the product of regional cooperation with some BP-spill money, has been a success. It’s no longer some Ed Turanchik fantasy. A major market with an identity dominated by a gulf, bays and channels actually has a viable water link–connecting the downtowns of Tampa and St. Petersburg. By late January ticket sales were generating enough revenue to cover costs. Hillsborough County is now setting aside serious money in reserve–with the hope it could one day be applied to expanded service.
From a personal standpoint, I’d recommend it–with a few tips. This isn’t mass transit–but a cool way to experience two waterfront downtowns complemented by Bloody Marys and skyline aesthetics. But plan accordingly.
Make museum and/or dining plans. Bring comfortable shoes, a bike or cab/Uber fare. Remember it’s an outing, not a logistical commute. That will have to come later with further transit maturity.
This doesn’t address gridlock and all the highway-sprawl scenarios we’re constantly reminded of. For now, this is feel-good fun and qualifies as a win over provincialism and business as usual.