The Delaware River and Bay Authority will hold a virtual public hearing to discuss proposed fare changes at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry.
The changes to be considered are fare hikes to reflect inflationary pressures and selected fare decreases to encourage family and muti-trip travel from the two stops.
“We typically introduce a fare change every other year, which is designed to help reduce the operating subsidy of the ferry, but also to make travel for families and multi-trip passengers more affordable over time,” said Heath Gehrke, director of Ferry Operations. “This year, we are holding a virtual public hearing to get some feedback from our guests as we move to implement some proposed changes – a process we have not used before. We are interested to hear what the public has to say.”
Ferries, like bus and rail transit systems, usually require subsidies.
On Wed., Dec. 6, at 6:30 p.m., a virtual public hearing will occur via Microsoft Teams. Those interested can visit www.cmlf.com/2024fareproposal to register and receive an email link for the public hearing.
Ferry operations are subsidized by proceeds from the Delaware Memorial Bridge, which undergoes continued maintenance and upgrades. Studies have shown that a tunnel under the crossing is not feasible. The ferry has carried more than 43 million passengers since its launch in 1964, with terminals getting upgrades.
Planning is also underway on a new generation of ferries that would reduce or eliminate polluting fuels.
