Bean and Adkins secure 1 million for St Johns River Ferry

SENATOR AARON BEAN

904-553-1991

June 22, 2015 11:15 a.m.

For the second consecutive year, the Legislature approved $1 million in state funding for the St. Johns River Ferry to continue making badly needed improvements and renovations.

State Representative Janet Adkins and State Senator Aaron Bean (File Photo)

Sen. Aaron Bean (R-Fernandina Beach) and Rep. Janet Adkins (R-Fernandina Beach) worked together to secure the funding which passed the Legislature passed Friday as part of the $78.7 billion state budget.  Both legislators represent the coastal areas of Duval and Nassau Counties that most rely on the ferry for transportation.

“We need the ferry and the ferry needed us, so we went to bat for it,” Bean said.  “It’s such a vital part of our First Coast history and transportation, and it was great to work with Rep. Adkins on getting this win for the home team.  The grassroots advocacy for the ferry by residents, local leaders, the Ferry Commission, and Save the Ferry has been key, and really helped us make the case for the appropriation at the state level.”

Adkins reiterated the importance of the ferry.

“The St. Johns Ferry is important to the residents of the First Coast,” said Adkins.  “Since I was elected to serve the citizens of House District 11 the ferry has been a high priority because it is important to the people I represent and the families that use the ferry every day.  The $1 million appropriation is a credit to the hard work and team effort that has always characterized the efforts to save the ferry and ensure its continued service to the citizens.  I will continue to work hard to ensure that the needs of local residents are a priority in Florida’s budget.”

Local leaders, such as Jacksonville Beach Mayor Charlie Latham, who have been involved in advocating the ferry were also excited by the funding announcement.

“I am proud to work toward securing the future of the Mayport Ferry alongside Sen. Bean and Rep. Adkins,” said Latham. “This issue is a classic example of what state and local governments can do when they work together for our constituents.  The ferry provides essential access and contiguous travel to and from many local businesses on A1A through Nassau, Duval and St Johns counties.  The ferry is good for local business, and it is imperative that we work together to ensure its sustainability.”

The ferry operates seven days a week and provides the most direct route for many commuters traveling between the coastal areas of Nassau and Duval Counties.