The location near the Museum of History was ultimately selected as the most accessible and compatible with surrounding uses.
The new dock would include a security gate, ticket booth, and full ADA compliance. No fuel station is planned onsite; instead, vessels will refuel from deliveries by truck.
“A big benefit with PSTA overseeing the ferry operations is that they are able to lock in a diesel fuel price, as they do for their buses, and save money,” Mory said.
PSTA is also exploring hybrid-powered vessels that could further reduce operating costs and emissions.
The project would require permits from the Army Corps of Engineers, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Pinellas County, and the City of St. Petersburg.
In addition, the city’s comprehensive plan would need to be amended since current regulations don’t allow additional marina developments in the basin. Once approved, the city would select a general contractor through a competitive procurement process.
According to Mory, it could take two to three years for the new dock to open.