[StBernard] DOTD announces end of Gretna ferry service

[Westley Annis]

DOTD announces end of Gretna ferry service

Shana Rose Reporting
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) will
utilize available funding and continue operations of the Chalmette ferry on
its current schedule, but the Algiers/Canal ferry will face an adjusted
schedule starting July 1st says spokeswoman Bambi Hall.

Operation of the Gretna ferry will cease as no funding was dedicated to the
ferry during the legislative session she says, and "The new schedule best
preserves access to transportation options for residents of the New Orleans
area."

DOTD states that the Algiers/Canal ferry will now run Monday through Friday
from 7AM to 7PM, and an approximate 8-hour schedule on Saturday and Sunday.
"DOTD will utilize the $830,000 provided by Act 273, along with $700,000
annually for two years provided by Act 274, to continue ferry operations at
the Algiers/Canal locations. This $1.5 million provides for the continued
ferry service but hours of operations will be closely monitored and may be
adjusted based on available funding and ridership levels.

"Adjusted hours of operations were coordinated with the RPC, local
legislators and public officials, who relied on peak ridership data and
reviewed RTA's bus schedule."

DOTD says they will work with local officials, including the tourism
industry, on the hours of operation for weekends.
 
No funds were dedicated to the Gretna ferry service during the legislative
session and it does not fit into the state's ferry service model because
alternative routes are available.

Gretna ferry service will end June 30, 2013.