The push to bring ferry service to Portland is on its last legs

The Frog Ferry initiative in Portland seeks $20 million to establish a pilot ferry service on the Willamette River, promoting it as an eco-friendly transit alternative. Advocates stress that without immediate funding and dock agreements, the project risks being abandoned. State Sen. Bruce Starr has voiced support for the funding request, noting that many major cities utilize waterways for transit. However, local leaders like Councilor Angelita Morillo emphasize that current infrastructure maintenance must take precedence over new projects.

The organization envisions an expanded ferry service running from Vancouver to Oregon City, with initial ticket prices around $5 and travel times of approximately 45 minutes. They aim to start with a smaller two-stop project between Cathedral Park and South Waterfront. The funding proposal includes requests to the Legislature and the Portland Clean Energy Fund. A decision on transportation funding is anticipated by the end of June, with city funding outcomes expected by fall.