12 JUNE 2019 • FOGHORN FOGHORNFOCUS: OPERATIONS P assenger-only ferry service is growing in popularity across the U.S.As many regions face increasing traffic congestion and commute times, eyes turn to the waterways to provide a congestion-free transportation option. In San Francisco, the PVA Vessel member Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) has seen ridership double since 2012 and is exploring options to add service throughout the region. In New York, NYC Ferry, operated by PVA Vessel member Hornblower, has launched six routes since beginning service in 2017, and already plans to add two new routes in the next two years while continuing to look at options for even further expansion. Behind this impressive expansion are countless planning efforts. Before a single passenger can be served, a well-developed plan is the essential first step in building sustainable passenger-only ferry systems. Compared to other transportation modes that require fixed guideway or sig- nificant roadway improvements, passenger-only ferries have the advantage of being somewhat flexible in their implementation requirements. Ferries travel over waterways that do not require improvements, can lease vessels or contract service operations, and are able to use existing landing sites such as public docks, sometimes with minimal improvements. Essentially, a simple passenger-only ferry service could be provided with a vessel, two existing landing sites, and a few decisions in schedule and service characteristics. However, planning documents inform and refine each of these elements and decision points. A plan develops an understanding of what the public and stakeholder groups are looking for and willing to fund, can qualify the service for other funding opportunities, focuses on making efficient use of investment dollars, and supports the long-term viability of service. Ferries are a unique form of public transit; assessing the costs and benefits of service and developing a plan for implementation requires a different framework than that used for bus or rail. Successful planning studies in- corporate elements such as stakehold- er outreach, service level planning, ridership forecasting, financial analysis, and assessment of capital investment needs. When looking at a potential service, careful consideration is given to governance structures, operating contract requirements, and industry- specific performance metrics. Agencies and operators often face a lack of appetite to pay for feasibil- ity and planning studies, especially as they prepare for the costs of a new service. Nevertheless, value is added by detailed planning and implementation documentation informed by experts with an understanding of ferry opera- tions. The investment in planning is especially worthwhile when consider- ing the possible longevity and potential expansion options of service, as well as the economic value and mobility options added to the region served. The bottom line is that nothing gets built without a solid plan. The planning process is often incremental and findings can be conceptual at the start and become more defined as feasibility is clarified and public and stakeholder interest is more tangible—planning must be flexible to this progression. Planning – The Key Ingredient to Successful Ferry Service By Kelly Lesoing, KPFF Consulting Engineers’ Marine Transit Consulting Group