Mayor Michelle Wu marked a significant milestone today with the opening of a new commuter ferry stop at Pier 10 in the Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park. This development offers new connections from South Boston Waterfront to Fan Pier and North Station. By establishing this commuter water shuttle, the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority and the Seaport Transportation Management Association (TMA) aim to enhance access and expand public transportation options in the South Boston Waterfront.
The ferry stop is part of Mayor Wu’s larger initiative to create a more accessible Boston and improve transport connectivity for its residents. The city recently initiated construction of a state-of-the-art EMS station in the area, further emphasizing its commitment to community-focused infrastructure.
“Expanding water transportation will boost economic activity and also provide important commuter alternatives that can ease traffic,” Mayor Wu stated during the opening ceremony.
She further expressed gratitude towards public and private stakeholders who contributed to this transformative project, underlining the administration’s goal to provide residents with safe and varied transport options.
Chief of Planning Kairos Shen articulated the importance of the new ferry stop as a crucial addition to the city’s public transportation network.
He mentioned, “Improving water transit in our city is something we have worked on for more than two decades, and I look forward to finding more opportunities to expand this network in the years to come.”
The construction, costing $2.5 million, was financed by the City of Boston through its five-year capital plan, alongside funding from the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA). In a concerted effort, MassDOT awarded a grant to the Seaport TMA, which will subsidize the initial two years of the ferry service.
Ongoing operational funding will be provided by contributions from Jamestown Properties, Related Beal, The Davis Companies, Beacon Capital Partners, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals.
Patrick Sullivan, Executive Director of the Seaport Transportation Management Association (TMA), expressed his excitement about the new ferry service, noting its potential impact on commuting options in the Marine Park.
He highlighted the collaborative efforts between public and private sectors, underscoring the shared commitment to enhancing transportation access in the Seaport.
Marcel Vernon, Sr., Chief Executive Officer of the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, reaffirmed this sentiment, adding that the new ferry stop at Pier 10 not only facilitates access to the waterfront but also showcases the myriad attractions and amenities of the South Boston Waterfront.
Monica Tibbits-Nutt, Secretary and CEO of MassDOT, remarked on the significance of the new dock in enriching the state’s water transportation landscape.
She indicated that these new ferry routes are expected to promote greater awareness of water transit convenience, ultimately bolstering economic and environmentally sustainable goals.
Strategic planning endeavors through the Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park Masterplan recognized the viability of Pier 10 for water transport connections to North Station.
The introduction of the ferry service aligns with broader multimodal investment plans aimed at reducing dependence on vehicular travel, especially as the Marine Park continues to evolve.
Chuck Pappalardo, Vice President of Global Operations and Real Estate at Vertex Pharmaceuticals, shared the positive reception of the ferry service among employees.
He noted that the service offers reliable schedules, effectively bypassing the challenging traffic conditions in the Seaport area.
Dana Griffin, Director of Northeast and West Coast Regional Lead, Asset Management at Jamestown, echoed similar sentiments, illustrating how the Pier 10 ferry stop embodies the fruitful outcomes of public-private partnerships.
He expressed pride in supporting efforts for enhanced transportation access within the growing neighborhood.
Duncan Gilkey, Senior Vice President and Director of Leasing at Davis, shared his appreciation for the collaborative efforts that led to the ferry dock’s establishment, aiming to improve accessibility for tenants and visitors in the area.
City Councilor Ed Flynn emphasized the importance of expanding public transportation services, specifically mentioning the new ferry line’s role in ensuring equitable transit access for South Boston Waterfront residents and workers.
State Representative David Biele also recognized the implications of the ferry service in improving transportation on the peninsula, acknowledging the teamwork involved in realizing this important project.
In conclusion, the opening of the ferry stop at Pier 10 represents a strategic enhancement to Boston’s public transportation landscape, providing safer and more efficient commuting options for residents and visitors alike.
As the Seaport continues to grow, this water transit development not only improves connectivity but also contributes to the ongoing development of the South Boston Waterfront as a vibrant urban destination.
image source from：boston
