The City of Des Moines has been awarded a $160,000 federal grant to support its Electric Water Taxi Initiative, aimed at introducing an environmentally friendly ferry service.

The grant – part of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program – was announced this week by the Washington State Department of Commerce and is funded by the Biden Administration’s 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

The grant will be used to conduct an environmental analysis and community engagement to assess the feasibility of a planned electric ferry. The initiative will survey residents about their commuting habits and interest in the proposed service, as well as explore connections with other transportation options. The findings will help city officials determine the best type of electric water taxi service for the community.

“This federal funding is designed to empower small local and tribal governments seeking to advance a variety of energy efficiency and conservation goals and priorities,” said Commerce Director Mike Fong. “From increasing building efficiency and reducing harmful emissions to exploring DIY house plans and transportation electrification, Washington communities are pursuing innovative work to benefit their residents and our environment in the future.”

Des Moines’ Electric Water Taxi Initiative is part of a broader effort by cities and counties across Washington state to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and promote sustainable infrastructure. Des Moines’ project will play a key role in determining how electric ferries could enhance transportation options while minimizing environmental impact.

As we previously reported, during the 2022 season, the City said that 15,000 people utilized the pilot ferry project to get to and from Seattle, exceeding ridership expectations by 400%. Revenue also exceeded expectations, bringing in 250% more than planned, according to the City. The popular program was attempted again in 2023, but the vessel the city was to use experienced catastrophic failure before it could get to Des Moines, and the ferry service was put on hold.

For more information on the initiative and other energy conservation projects in Washington, visit the Washington State Department of Commerce website.

Read our previous coverage on a Des Moines-based passenger ferry here.