Saturday, July 7, 2018

CAPE MAY - LEWES FERRY 5TH FERRY ADDED 1985



CAPE MAY – LEWES FERRY
5TH FERRY CHRISTENED MAY 3 1985

A fifth vessel for the ferry service between Cape May and Lewes was christened
Friday, May 3. 1985 in Delaware River & Bay Authority ceremonies. The $14.5 million
vessel was christened the M.V. Cape May.

If traffic continues to increase it may need to add a sixth ferry to the fleet. Studies show
six vessels are the maximum the water route can accommodate and if six ferries are full a
bridge tunnel may be necessary.

Ferry service began in 1964 and steadily attracted more traffic. In 1965, the first year,
four ferried carried 550,000 people and 200.000 cars. In 1984 four ferried served 900,000
people and 300,000 vehicles.

The new casino gambling in Atlantic City has been a major reason for the most
recent increase in traffic.

Each ferry carries 100 vehicles and 800 passengers on a 18 mile, 70 minute crossing.

This July a $1 million terminal will open at Lewes and $1 million in improvements
for handicapped persons are expected.


Abstract: July 7, 2018, By Harrison H. from Wilmington Morning News, Saturday, May 4, 1985. www.delmarhistory.blogspot.com



No comments:

Post a Comment