San Francisco

Berkeley City Leaders OK Study For Commuter Ferry Service to SF

Berkeley commuters could one day trade their long drive into San Francisco for a stress-free ferry ride.

The Berkeley City Council has approved a study to look into restoring the closed Berkeley Pier to make way for ferry service between the Berkeley Marina and San Francisco.

East Bay commuters say it’s about time.

"It’s a cool option to have, to be able to relax on the ferry and get a drink," Berkeley resident Lindsey Moore said. "It’s much less stressful than BART is."

On Wednesday, the City Council voted unanimously to enter an agreement with the Water Emergency Transportation Authority to begin planning for a ferry service and a public recreation pier at the Berkeley Marina.

"The timing is perfect as we’re looking big picture at the future of our marina and our waterfront," Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin said.

Money from the bridge toll measure passed last year is helping pay for the $250,000 feasibility study.

The WETA board of directors also will need to vote on the agreement for the project. If all goes according to plan, ferry service from Berkeley to San Francisco could launch by 2035.

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