Assemblymember Susan John (D-Rochester) announced that she fought for and secured $14 million in state loans and grants to jumpstart the Rochester Fast Ferry. The funding package includes a 20-year, $6.6 million State Infrastructure loan and a $7.4 million grant.

"This funding is the final step in making fast ferry service between Rochester and Toronto a reality," John said. "This project will bring the kind of dramatic economic results that Monroe County desperately needs."

John noted that the fast ferry will immediately bring 200 full-time jobs and generate more than $115 million in construction related costs for the city of Rochester. The long-term impact of the project is estimated at 1,500 new jobs and nearly $165 million in tourism spending.

"Not only will the construction of this project provide Rochester an initial economic boost, the ferry service will help create permanent jobs and generate tourism dollars for years to come," John said.