WASHINGTON, D.C. -- United States Senator Daniel K. Inouye announced that the Senate approved an amendment to promote the use of marine ferry and high-speed marine ferry services, and to allow state-run ferry programs to apply for federal grants for the construction of ferries, and or related ferry infrastructure. Under this amendment, the State of Hawaii would be able to apply for grants to help start new ferry operations. Inouye's amendment is included in S. 1173, the Intermodel Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1997 (ISTEA II), a bill to reauthorize our nation's surface transportation program.

"The marine ferry system of the United States provides an invaluable component to the transportation requirements of our nation. Because Hawaii is an island state, I believe the viability of passenger/vehicle ferry services should be fully pursued. Marine ferries are less costly as compared to highways, bridges, and tunnels. In coastal urban centers, marine ferry service can provide cost-effective, environmentally friendly transportation to areas suffering from congestion," stated Senator Inouye.

"The problem of severe traffic congestion is a critical issue. The State is exploring mobility alternatives for Honolulu's primary urban corridor from Ewa to Downtown Honolulu. I believe that high-speed marine ferry services can be a cost-effective alternative to help alleviate much of urban Oahu's traffic problems," continued Inouye.

The amendment awaits a joint House-Senate Conference and final House and Senate votes before its transmittal to the White House.