ME-2023-004

Application Purpose:
This application is to request FY2022 Section 5311 Ferry Service for Rural Communities funds as selected during the competitive grant process in the amount of $4,991,474. The Maine Department of Transportation will receive funding to maintain and operate the Maine State Ferry Service. The funding will support safe, reliable, and sustainable ferry service to six island communities in Mid-Coast and Down East Maine where rural residents rely on ferries for access to jobs, goods, healthcare, and other services.

Maine State Ferry Service Website: https://www.maine.gov/mdot/ferry/
MaineDOT Website: https://www.maine.gov/mdot/

Activities Performed:
MaineDOT is requesting operating assistance to support safe, reliable, and sustainable ferry service to the six island communities served by Maine State Ferry Services (MSFS). The islands are unbridged and rely on MSFS for access to jobs, services, goods, and medical treatment. The requested funding will support MaineDOT's staffing, maintenance, and customer communication efforts to maintain and enhance service reliability in the face of increasing operating costs.

Expected Outcomes:
As MaineDOT adds cleaner vessels to its fleet (e.g., hybrid-electric vessels), operating funding will support cleaner, reduced emissions transportation for our customers, the island and mainland communities, and the surrounding areas. The project will address staffing shortages, vessel maintenance, and the enhancement of timely customer communication.

Intended Beneficiaries:
Maine residents and visitors.

Subrecipient Activities:
None.

Maine Department Of Transportation

20.532 - Passenger Ferry Grant Program, Electric or Low-Emitting Ferry Pilot Program, and Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program

FTA Region 1 [DOT - FTA]

FTA Office of Budget and Policy [DOT - FTA]

Maine United States

State-Wide

None

Amendment Since initial award the total obligations have decreased 33% from $14,974,422 to $9,982,948.