Latest news with #JulietteGordonLowII
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
17-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
City unveils ferries with cutting-edge feature designed to change transportation: 'We're committed to pushing the boundaries'
Savannah, Georgia, is now home to two new low-emissions ferries, the Juliette Gordon Low II and Susie King Taylor II. According to Energy+Environment Leader, they both use an innovative hybrid propulsion system. Manufacturing partner Derecktor has said that with these waterjet systems, the 65-foot vessels would produce fewer emissions than diesel-powered alternatives. It added that the ferries enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, better comfort for passengers, and reduced costs to operators. Would you rather have a plug-in hybrid or a full-on EV? I'm team hybrid Give me the EV Whichever is cheaper I don't want either Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Marine Jet Power built the propulsion system using a model that it deployed in military and law enforcement capacities. It's safe to say these are up to the task of ferrying daily commuters between City Hall Landing, Trade Center Landing, and Waving Girl Landing. The boats were named after two famous locals. Juliette Gordon Low was the founder of the Girl Scouts, and Susie King Taylor was the first Black woman to teach openly in a school for formerly enslaved individuals in Georgia. Burning diesel produces a lot of pollution, so cutting its use by any amount is good news for the environment and personal health. More and more commercial boats are enjoying the benefits of electrification, including high-demand ships like tugboats. Growing options include several new hydrofoil technologies. Overall, boats emit little pollution compared to light-duty road travel, but the seas are not without their villains. On a distance-per-traveler basis, cruise ships are particularly bad offenders. Reducing pollution from ferry travel is going in the right direction, in any case. The new ferries in Savannah are the first of their kind in America, and the manufacturer is excited about their potential. "We're committed to pushing the boundaries of marine technology and delivering innovative solutions that prioritize sustainability," said Erik Derecktor, new construction commercial manager for Derecktor Shipyards. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
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.
