California Ferry Operator Gets $11 Million Federal Grant for Zero-Emission Electric Vessel Fleet

So far, approximately $136 million has been secured for the REEF Program from local, state, and federal agencies.Photo byDavid LangonUnsplash

San Francisco Bay Ferry has been awarded an $11 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to advance its plans to introduce the nation’s first high-speed battery-electric ferries. The funding supports Phase 1 of the agency’s Rapid Electric Emission-Free Ferry (REEF) Program, which aims to transition the ferry fleet to zero-emission technology.

The grant will enable the procurement of three 150-passenger battery-electric vessels that will serve Treasure Island, Mission Bay, Downtown San Francisco, and other growing waterfront communities. This initiative is a significant step toward reducing emissions and traffic congestion in the Bay Area.

“San Francisco’s waterfront is thriving, and this award will ensure it remains connected and accessible through state-of-the-art, zero-emission ferries,” said Jim Wunderman, Chair of SF Bay Ferry’s Board of Directors. He credited bold investments from the Biden-Harris Administration and strong support from local congressional leaders like House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and Senator Alex Padilla.

So far, approximately $136 million has been secured for the REEF Program from local, state, and federal agencies. Future phases of the program will include larger vessels, terminal electrification, and converting existing diesel ferries to zero-emission technology. The first battery-electric ferry is expected to be delivered by 2026.