Cross Bay Ferry Contract Termination Vote Looms Over Vessel Change

Contract Dispute Threatens Cross Bay Ferry Service

• ⚠️ The Cross Bay Ferry, connecting Tampa and St. Petersburg, faces an early termination of its contract with Hillsborough County.
• 📌 The core issue is a proposed change to the ferry's vessel, which would increase travel time from approximately 50 minutes to 2 hours.

County's Stance on Contractual Obligations

• 🏛️ Hillsborough County asserts that the contract mandates a high-speed boat and an equivalent replacement vessel.
• 📜 The county sent a termination letter to HMS Ferries, the operating company, citing the proposed vessel change as a breach of agreement.
• 🗓️ The county commissioners are scheduled to vote on April 16th to officially terminate the contract.

Impact on Service and Future Possibilities

• 🚢 If the contract is terminated, the last day of service for the Cross Bay Ferry will be April 30th.
• 🌉 The ferry is described as a convenient and enjoyable service for both tourists and local residents, offering an alternative to traffic congestion.
• 🤝 The city of St. Petersburg is reportedly working with PSTA to explore launching a new ferry service to connect Tampa Bay communities.
• 💡 Despite the current situation, it's noted that "nothing is set in stone" before the commissioners' vote.