Jacksonville Community Thrilled as St. Johns River Ferry Secures $15 Million Investment for a Second Boat

A Major Investment for a Vital Community Connection

The St. Johns River Ferry is set to receive a significant upgrade with a $15.6 million investment that will bring in a second ferry boat. For residents of Fort George Island, Mayport, and Jacksonville, this development provides a vital alternative to the often congested and lengthy route across the Dames Point Bridge.

The ferry has long been more than just a transportation option. For many locals, it represents a safer, calmer, and more reliable way to travel across the river. The addition of a second vessel now promises greater security and consistency for daily commuters and visitors alike.

Safety and Peace of Mind for Riders

Jacksonville resident Brett Melvin explained why the ferry is such an important part of his commute.
“I’ll do 75 miles per hour on the bridge, but then people cut across at 90,” he shared. “That just isn’t safe. The ferry feels safer, less congested, and far more peaceful.”

For riders like Melvin, the ferry is not only about convenience but also about safety and a sense of calm that the busy bridge commute cannot provide.

A Backup When the Unexpected Happens

The announcement of a second ferry comes as welcome news to a community that recently dealt with the frustration of service interruptions. Earlier this year, the lone ferry in operation was taken out of service for weeks after crashing into the boarding ramp. With no backup option available, commuters were left with limited choices.

Local resident Lauren Inman described the relief the second boat will bring.
“This is like a bridge to the rest of A1A. It’s necessary for a lot of people,” she said. “I’ve lived in Jacksonville my whole life, and I remember when there were two ferries before, so I’m thrilled.”

Hopes for Expanded Service

For many in the community, the arrival of an additional ferry is not just about backup during breakdowns or maintenance. It also raises hopes that service could expand in the future.

Currently, ferries run about every half hour, but locals like Melvin believe that with two boats in operation, service could be increased to every 15 minutes, making it more efficient for commuters and more beneficial for the city.
“If you’re not making money with it, it’s not doing you any good,” Melvin added, emphasizing the potential for better utilization of the service with more frequent crossings.

What This Means for Jacksonville

The St. Johns River Ferry has been a part of Jacksonville’s identity for generations. The $15.6 million investment is not only about maintaining tradition but also about preparing for the future. With growing populations and increasing traffic, reliable river crossings have become more critical than ever.

The introduction of a second ferry offers reassurance that service interruptions will not leave residents stranded and creates possibilities for growth in frequency and accessibility. For locals, it is both a nod to the past—when two ferries once operated—and a step forward into a stronger, more reliable future.