Latest news with #ChathamAreaTransit
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Savannah launches nation's first waterjet hybrid ferries with public celebration
HUTCHINSON ISLAND, Ga. (WSAV) – Savannah is making waves – literally – with a groundbreaking addition to its waterfront. Chatham Area Transit is rolling out the nation's first waterjet hybrid ferries. The new additions promise a greener, smoother ride for locals and visitors alike. You've probably taken a ferry ride in Savannah before – but not like the one that Savannah now offers. For the first time in U.S. History, waterjet hybrid ferries are entering public service – and CAT is launching them right here in Savannah. The Juliette Gordon Low II and Susie King Taylor II are the newest additions to the Savannah Belles Ferry Fleet – and they're making history. These are the first in the country to feature waterjet hybrid technology, which combines diesel-powered generators with large lithium-ion batteries for quiet and efficient travel. The boats have been running since January of this year, but CAT was waiting to celebrate until they knew all the kinks were fixed and were running smoothly. They told WSAV that today is now the day to officially celebrate this launch. After nearly five years bringing this project to life, each ferry costs around $5.5 million. The ferries improve passenger comfort while reducing fuel use and emissions. The launch also marks the completion of the newly restored seawall… a key piece of riverfront infrastructure. CAT officials hope Savannah's example sets a new standard for cities across the country. 'These vessels were a long time in the making, many years from concept to design, to build and to gather the funding to get these vessels. So, we're just really excited to be able to introduce it to all of Savannah,' said John Allen, the Director of Marine Services for Chatham Area Transit. This afternoon, local leaders and the public are welcome to celebrate the launch of the new ferries. The event begins with a ribbon-cutting at City Hall Landing, followed by a ferry cruise to the Savannah Convention Center. Public celebration today, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. City Hall Landing and Trade Center Landing Nation's 1st Waterjet Hybrid Ferries $5.5M Each, 4–5 Years in the Making Quieter, Cleaner, More Efficient Rides This marks a major step forward in green public transit. The ferry fleet is now growing to 6 boats, just in time for the new convention center. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
18-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
CAT introduces two new hybrid ferries
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — Two new hybrid Savannah ferries made their grand entrance on Saturday. The Chatham Area Transit (CAT) introduced Juliette Gordon Low II and Susie King Taylor II, both hybrid ferries. A public celebration will be announced at a later date for Spring 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
04-02-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Transit Equity Day gains momentum in Savannah: enjoy free rides today in honor of Rosa Parks
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – When stepping on the bus today, you'll see a seat already taken, but no one is in it. The seat is set aside today for Rosa Parks. Chatham Area Transit is honoring the legacy of Rosa Parks with a special initiative – free rides for everyone. It's all part of a nationwide effort to highlight the importance of accessible transportation. Riders can take advantage of free rides all day Tuesday. The free rides recognize the important role public transit plays in providing equal access to jobs, education, and essential services. In honor of Transit Equity Day – and Rosa Park's legacy – CAT is offering free rides on all fixed-route buses and paratransit services. It is all about making public transit accessible to everyone – just like Rosa Parks fought for nearly 70 years ago. Transit played a large role in the civil rights movement… and today it continues to connect people to endless opportunities. 'We are dedicating a seat on the bus to Rosa Parks so when you get on the bus look out for the seat and you'll get some great information about the civil rights leader and her contribution and why this day is important,' said Mary Moskowitz, the CAT Chief of Planning, Infrastructure, and Development Officer. Transit Equity Day has recently gained traction for celebration. The holiday was created by a combination of Unions, which included the Labor Sustainability Network, in 2017. 'This is our second year (celebrating). We started really going hard with our recognition back in 2023 when we first decided to dedicate a seat to this Rosa Parks and the movement that she led against to make sure they all have access to public transportation,' A'riel Johnson, the CAT Public Information & Communications Officer. Park's arrest led to a 381-day boycott of the Montgomery bus system and is regarded as the first large-scale U.S. Demonstration against segregation. The boycott later resulted in the Supreme Court decision that banned segregation on public transit. Whether you're commuting, running errands, or just exploring Savannah… today's the perfect day to ride for free and reflect on the power of public transportation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
