Motion approved: Tampa and St. Pete green light proposal to bring back the Tampa Bay Ferry

“This is the future of transportation in Tampa Bay,” said Tampa’s City Councilmember Chris Clendenin, moments after the motion passed.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — After months of discussion, councilmembers in both Tampa and St. Petersburg have officially approved plans to bring the Tampa Bay Ferry back to life — this time, as a year-round transportation option connecting the two cities.

“This is the future of transportation in Tampa Bay,” said Tampa City Council member Chris Clendenin, moments after the motion passed.

Under the new agreement, both cities will each contribute up to $350,000 a year to help fund the ferry’s operation. St. Petersburg City Council member Copley Gerdes called the investment a practical step toward a more connected region.

“This is more than just a tourist attraction,” said St. Pete Council member Gina Driscoll. “The way you have this set up now — it’s going to be thought of as a practical way to get through the day.”

The deal also includes a $44,000 transfer from Tampa’s general fund to cover startup costs, managed through the city’s Transportation and Parking Division.

“Another tool in the toolbox for getting traffic off the streets, cars off the road, and connecting communities,” said Tampa Council member Guido Maniscalco.

Once operational, the ferry will be run by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), which will handle all management and oversight. PSTA leaders say this version of the ferry is designed to last — offering consistent, year-round service rather than the short seasonal runs seen in past years.

“The plan that PSTA has for this one is three steps in the right direction — frequent service, predictable service, year-round service,” Clendenin added. “We’re surrounded by water — it only makes sense.”

Research presented to the St. Petersburg City Council showed that nearly 90 percent of past ferry riders were locals, not tourists — a strong indication that residents are ready to use the service for daily commutes and recreation alike.

Council member Corey Givens Jr. says the ferry will dock next to the St. Petersburg Museum of History, near The Pier, offering a much more visible and accessible location than before.

“This access point is perfect — perfect for tourists, perfect for residents,” Givens said. “Where it was before, in the port, it was tucked away and hard to find. This is a much easier access point.”

Concepts from the McLaren Engineering Group show two possible dock designs under consideration.

PSTA is recommending Hubbard’s Marina — also known as Tampa Bay Ferry and Taxi — as the new ferry operator. The PSTA Board will vote on December 3rd, and if approved, it could clear the way to officially set the project in motion.