Progress in Realizing Regional Water Transit Vision

Today (May 5), the Bay Area Council Water Transit Subcommittee hosted the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) and heard a presentation on their newly updated Strategic Plan, the agency’s opportunity to demonstrate its vision for the future and garner public support to secure the resources to fulfill its mission. WETA announced the addition of a green technology section of the plan, which includes the analysis of advanced technologies that hold promise of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and driving down operating costs.

The new plan also includes a funding strategy, which identifies potential new financing opportunities and a strategy to secure them. WETA announced a milestone in its Richmond Ferry Terminal project, as the City of Richmond Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for the planned service, marking the last major approval required by the city to finalize the project. Service is set to begin there in early 2018.

Expanding ferry service on the bay is a major priority for the Bay Area Council, as it provides a convenient and comfortable commute solution to the region’s increasingly congested highways and transit systems. To engage in the Council’s water transit work, please contact Policy Manager Emily Loper.