Delaware River and Bay Authority Unveils Plans for Eco-Friendly Ferry Construction

DRBA Initiates Construction of New Diesel-Hybrid Ferry

The Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) has made significant strides towards sustainability by awarding a contract for a new diesel-hybrid vessel aimed at improving ferry operations between Cape May, New Jersey and Lewes, Delaware. The contract was awarded to SENESCO Marine LLC of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, at a competitive bid of $78.6 million. This funding includes a substantial $20 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, emphasizing the project’s potential for enhancing regional transportation and environmental standards.

Replacement of an Aging Fleet

The new ferry will replace the MV Cape Henlopen, a vessel that has been in operation for over four decades. This replacement is critical as the old ferry no longer meets the modern demands of efficient and environmentally friendly transportation. DRBA Executive Director Joel Coppadge underscored the significance of this investment, stating, "For sustainable ferry operations in the future, it's imperative we make this necessary capital investment today.” The decision not only focuses on operational efficiency but also recognizes the historical importance of the ferry link connecting the two communities.

Environmental Impact and Efficiency Gains

The upcoming vessel is designed to bolster operational efficiency while concurrently reducing environmental repercussions. With features like hybrid and all-electric operating modes, the new ferry is expected to lower its emissions dramatically: an estimated reduction of 2,025 tons of carbon dioxide, 102.7 tons of nitrogen dioxide, and numerous other harmful pollutants annually. Additionally, a projected 35% reduction in fuel consumption is anticipated, making the vessel more economical to operate.

Heath Gehrke, Director of Ferry Operations, expressed optimism about the ferry's impact, noting, "The Cape May – Lewes Ferry is a vital transportation link and an economic catalyst for the southern regions of Delaware and New Jersey." The project aims to maintain and enhance the ferry’s pivotal role in transporting hundreds of thousands of passengers yearly.

Future-Proofing the Ferry Services

The new ferry represents the beginning of a new chapter in the operation of the Cape May - Lewes Ferry, ensuring that it remains a reliable option for travelers avoiding highway congestion. Passengers rely on the ferry service for various purposes—from commuting to work, visiting family, or simply enjoying a break from routine. With the construction set to begin early next year, the completion is slated for summer 2029, ensuring that future generations will benefit from improved services.

Economic Implications

Recognized not just as a mode of transport, the Cape May – Lewes Ferry serves as an essential component of the region's economy, generating jobs and tax revenue for local communities. With over 50 million passengers transported since its inception in 1964, the ferry has played a significant role in stimulating regional tourism and promoting local businesses.

As the project advances, stakeholders and passengers alike are eager to witness the transformation of the ferry services, with the promise of an environmentally responsible and efficient vessel. The evolution towards a green ferry is seen as a necessary pivot not just for today but for maintaining the vitality of the transportation network in Delaware and New Jersey well into the future.

For more updates about the ferry construction and DRBA’s initiatives, visit DRBA’s official website.