SAN FRANCISCO – A recent survey from San Francisco Bay Ferry indicates substantial public support for a future ballot initiative to fund expanded ferry services in the Bay Area. The survey, conducted by local firm Corey, Canapary & Galanis in Spring 2024, revealed that 65% of East Bay residents would back a measure to raise revenue for improved ferry service, while only 15% voiced opposition.
The survey polled residents of Solano, Napa, Contra Costa, and Alameda counties who travel to San Francisco or South San Francisco regularly but don’t often use the ferry. Among current SF Bay Ferry riders, support for the proposed initiative was even stronger, with 77% in favor.
SF Bay Ferry has seen a strong recovery in ridership, reaching 89% of pre-pandemic levels over the past year, with 25% growth year-over-year. The service hit an all-time record during San Francisco Fleet Week on October 12-13, transporting 32,146 passengers in a single weekend.
As the Bay Area’s waterfront communities expand, SF Bay Ferry aims to reduce congestion and improve accessibility through a robust water transit network. The system also boasts the sixth-lowest cost per passenger mile among the region’s 27 public transit providers, adding to its appeal as an effective and efficient transit solution.