VDOT News - Statewide

Surry, VA – The Virginia Department of Transportation’s (VDOT’s) Jamestown-Scotland Ferry Facility received $4.19 million through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Passenger Ferry Grant Program to help improve passenger safety and modernize the ferry slips in Surry County and Jamestown.

The aim of the competitive grant program is to improve access to – and the safety and reliability of – public ferries. The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) applied for the grant on behalf of VDOT’s ferry system. 

“The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry system is a vital transportation option in the Hampton Roads region, helping hundreds of residents, visitors and tourists get to the places they need to be,” said VDOT Commissioner Stephen Brich. “This support will help ensure our ferry passengers have a safe and positive experience each time they travel.”

“As the sole vehicle-crossing provider between the James River Bridge downstream at Newport News and the Benjamin Harrison Memorial Bridge upriver near Hopewell, these funds will enable the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry to continue providing its unique and valuable service in the Commonwealth,” said DRPT Director Jennifer Mitchell. “DRPT is committed to safe and reliable transportation alternatives in Virginia.”  

The ferry operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It consists of two locations (at Jamestown and Surry) and four ferries, and currently transports hundreds of passengers daily.

Background:

• FY20 Passenger Ferry Grant Selections 
• Passenger Ferry Grant program 
• FTA Press release
• Video: FTA awards $47.5 million in grants under FTA’s FY20 Passenger Ferry program  

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