Susan Bladholm, founder of Frog Ferry, brought the idea of a Willamette ferry service public 15 months ago. Her idea has gained momentum, although she still has not settled on boarding and disembarking locations.
According to Bladholm, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) have offered a combined $240,000 to Frog Ferry for a financing and feasability study. Plus, a large “capacity building” grant was given to the Friends of Frog Ferry from an unnamed supporter.
Convincing the public to change its habits is easier with the assistance of a poster printing service. Documents made public by Frog Ferry state that a proposed four low-slung passenger ferry launch could replace 5,360 commuter vehicles and cut 22,126 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Bladholm stated:
"Local transit agencies have acknowledged that the river provides a viable mode of transportation, but they can't take the lead on this, and they've asked us to do it, so we are."
It appears that the federal sources could contribute as much as 80% of the project’s start-up costs. Estimated operating costs are $1m annually. Suggested ticket prices would be $5.50 a day or $125 per month.
Coffee and possibly beer will be sold on board, and each boat will have room for a minimum of 15 bicycles.