Cape May-Lewes Ferry gets $20 million for hybrid engine

Delaware’s congressional delegation secured a $20 million federal grant to replace a 40-year-old diesel engine and replace it with a hybrid one.

Officials said the grant will help the Delaware River and Bay Authority reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The hybrid and all-electric operating modes are estimated to reduce 2,025 tons in carbon dioxide, 102.7 tons in nitrogen dioxide, 1.51 tons of fine particulate matter, 1.03 tons of hydrocarbons and 5 tons of carbon monoxide. The new engines will also reduce fuel consumption by 35%, officials said.

“For six decades, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry has provided a trusted link across the Delaware Bay that has brought more visitors to our beaches and stimulated our economy,” said Sen. Chris Coons, co-chair of the bipartisan Senate Climate Solutions Caucus, in a press release. “As the lowest-lying state in the nation, moving our public transportation in greener, cleaner directions is a must, and this incredible investment will modernize our fleet while preserving our charm and history.” 

In the same press release, Sen. Tom Carper said he supports replacing diesel engines with cleaner-powered engines to help improve our air quality and protect public health while lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

“Hundreds of thousands of people depend on this ferry route every year, and I’m glad we are making investments into cleaner operations that our passengers, operators, crew members, and folks who live and work around the terminals can enjoy,” he said.