Salem Gets Federal Funds To Expand Ferry Service

SALEM, MA -- The city is set to receive $3.4 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation to expand ferry service between Salem and Boston. The grant, which was announced in a joint release by Senators Elizabeth Warren and Edward J. Markey and Representatives Stephen F. Lynch and Seth Moulton, will go towards purchasing a second ferry.

""I couldn't be more pleased that our grant application to DOT has been successful," Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll said. "Expanded and additional ferry service has been one of our priority goals for helping to mitigate traffic and add more commuter options for Salem residents and visitors alike.

Under the same grant program, Hingham received $6,050,000 to build a new ferry dock in Hingham.

"The home of the nation's first National Historic Maritime Site deserves a ferry of world-class distinction," Markey said. "This injection of federal funds will help ensure those who live, work, and visit Salem have another reliable, environmentally-friendly transportation alternative. I thank Mayor Driscoll for her commitment to expand fun, efficient, clean transportation options for our constituents."

Salem currently has five round trips to Boston between May 20 and October 31 as part of the Boston Harbor Cruises' summer service. In December, the Massachusetts Seaport Economic Council named Salem as one of 12 cities and towns being considered for new or expanded MBTA ferry service.

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Photo by Boston Harbor Cruises.

Dave Copeland can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).