Ferry Boat Formula Program
Forecasted
Ferry Boat Formula Program supports Michigan authorities and governmental agencies by funding construction of ferry boats and terminal facilities for passenger and vehicle service.
Funder: Michigan Department of Transportation
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: At least $100,000 per fiscal year for a state with an eligible entity; not an individual award amount
Summary: Federal formula funding supports construction of ferry boats and ferry terminal facilities.
Key Information: Eligible applicants are authorities and governmental agencies eligible under Michigan Act 51.
Description
The Ferry Boat Formula Program funds construction of ferry boats and ferry terminal facilities. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) lists it among federal passenger transportation programs and flexible federal highway funding programs. That flexibility allows some highway funds to be transferred to transit projects, and vice versa.
Funding is distributed by a formula based on ferry service: passengers, including those traveling in vehicles, account for 35 percent; vehicles carried account for 35 percent; and the total nautical miles served by ferry routes account for 30 percent.
