Treasure Island, FL (March 1st, 2017) – In an effort to provide more transportation options to beach guests and residents, Hubbard’s Marina partnered with Madeira Beach city government to begin providing water taxi/ferry services in and around Madeira Beach, Western St. Petersburg and Treasure Island last October. The service is not only practical but also much more fun and scenic than sitting in beach traffic and it has been gaining momentum with locals and tourists alike.
The need for such a service is evidenced by recent ridership. On average, the ferry has DOUBLED ridership the past 4 months in a row. It has been running 3 days a week since its inception consequently, starting March 8st the service will be increased to 5 days a week.
“We are very excited for Pinellas County that awareness for waterborne transportation has taken us to the point of expanding the Madeira Beach ferry and taxi service”, said Captain Mark Hubbard of Hubbard’s Marina.
Pinellas County has developed a draft ordinance to regulate the waterborne transport services for the beach cities to adopt. This will make it easier for city governments to work with ferry operators to expand waterborne transportation and raise awareness on the practicality and usefulness of waterborne transportation. In addition, the Barrier Islands Government Council adopted a resolution of support for waterborne transportation to be disseminated amongst the beach cities.
Mayor Palladeno will be hosting a press conference to discuss the impact of the increased service on the beach traffic, the adoption of the ordinance and resolution, and to provide Treasure Island government a feasibility study to help determine adding an additional and permanent stop at Treasure Island City Hall.
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When: Thursday, March 2nd, at 10AM
Where: Treasure Island City Hall 120 108th Ave, Treasure Island, FL 33706 – parking lot by transient Dock
New ferry/taxi service hours:
Wednesday – Sunday
10AM – 10PM
For pricing and pick-up locations visit TampaBayFerry.com
About Tampa Bay Ferry Service: Stared in October 2016 and created in partnership by The City of Madeira Beach and Hubbard’s Marina, the Tampa Bay Ferry Service is a waterborne ferry/taxi that services Madeira Beach, Western St. Petersburg and Treasure Island. The ferry offers residents and visitors an alternative transportation option via the intercostal waterway. For more information about the ferry service, to view maps, pick-up locations and times or to purchase tickets, please visit TampaBayFerry.com
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