Enhancing Ferryboat Service Between St. Thomas and St. John
Posted by Jean Greaux on July 16, 2009 at 3:35 PM AST

Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. said today that the Virgin Islands has received federal grant money which will enhance passenger ferry service between St. Thomas and St. John:

“The government has received a grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) totaling $3 million dollars for the specific purpose of upgrading the ferry service now being provided between Cruz Bay, St. John and Red Hook, St. Thomas.”

Public Works Commissioner Darryl A. Smalls said the federal stimulus funds combined with $1.5 million from the Federal Highway Administration Federal Aid Program and approximately $644,000 from the Ferry Boat Discretionary Program will be used for the purchase of two ferryboats, one each for the current franchise operators:

“We will be working closely with the two companies, Varlack Ventures and Transportation Services, to develop the design specifications for the new ferries that can best serve those residents who ply the waters between St. Thomas and St. John whether for work or recreation or those who simply rely on the service as part of their way of life.” 

de Jongh said the territory competed with many other U.S. jurisdictions for the one-time grant. “A total of $60 million dollars was available for this purpose and the Virgin Islands made a strong enough case to secure $3 million to upgrade the level of ferry services provided our residents.” 

The governor said he looks forward to utilizing all monies made available to the Virgin Islands through the federal stimulus as a means of stimulating our own economy while at the same time, enhancing already established programs and commencing new programs and initiatives that will enhance the way of live for all Virgin Islanders.