The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has released its FY 2026 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for federal ferry programs, making approximately $657 million available for projects to improve ferry service and infrastructure nationwide. Applications are due May 11, 2026. Read the announcement and details on how to apply here.
Funding is available through three programs: the Passenger Ferry Grant Program ($105 million), the Electric or Low-Emitting Ferry Program ($98 million), and the Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program ($454 million). Eligible projects include vessel acquisition, terminal construction and rehabilitation, and supporting infrastructure.
For PVA members, this presents a key opportunity for public ferry operators—and private operators working in partnership with public entities—to advance capital projects. It also reinforces the importance of continued advocacy as Congress begins work on surface transportation reauthorization and the future of federal ferry funding. FY 2026 is the final year of funding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), making this a particularly competitive and important funding cycle.
FTA is prioritizing projects that can move quickly to obligation and deliver clear benefits to riders, with an emphasis on making ferry travel more family friendly. Selection criteria include improvements to safety and accessibility (including for passengers with disabilities), enhanced passenger information and wayfinding, and projects that improve access to jobs, healthcare, and other essential destinations. FTA notes that it is prioritizing low emission and standard propulsion types over zero emission projects and does not want lengthy applications.