(Office of the Governor) — The Commonwealth Office of Transit Authority, under the Office of the Governor, has announced the launch of a comprehensive feasibility study to evaluate the potential for a sustainable passenger inter-island ferry service connecting the islands of Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and Guam, while also evaluating the inclusion of the Northern Islands in the system.
The study, scheduled to be completed within seven to nine months, will assess both the financial and operational viability of the service, including identifying funding sources and its potential economic benefits for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. This initiative is made possible through a competitive grant from the Federal Transit Administration under the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The ferry feasibility study will explore financial and operational viability and conduct a cost-benefit analysis. The study will examine potential ferry terminal locations, program costs, and identify specifications for ferry vessels designed and built specifically for the waters around the islands of the CNMI. Additionally, the study will gather and address community insights and concerns regarding the benefits and challenges of the proposed system.
The study will also estimate ridership demand, fare structures, potential job creation, and funding sources. Furthermore, it will assess the broader economic and social benefits of the ferry service, such as improved connectivity, enhanced tourism, and environmental sustainability.
“This study is about more than just connecting our islands; it’s about creating real, reliable transportation options for everyone in the CNMI,” said Alfreda Camacho Maratita, the governor’s special assistant for public transportation. “We’re looking at every angle — from economic opportunities and tourism benefits to environmental sustainability and community needs. Our priority is to figure out whether we can build a ferry system that genuinely works for our people and serves as a long-term solution to our transportation challenges.”
In parallel with the ferry feasibility study, COTA is developing a Sustainable Transit Master Plan or STMP aimed at improving fixed-route and on-demand land-based transit services, ensuring connectivity with the proposed ferry system. The STMP will explore ways to expand transportation access to employment, education, and healthcare services, mitigate congestion, improve travel efficiency, create a financial plan, and promote multi-modal connectivity by integrating various transport options.
“For years, we’ve struggled with inconsistent and unreliable transportation options between our islands,” said Gov. Arnold I. Palacios. “This effort marks a turning point. With federal support and a focused strategy, we now have a real chance to establish a reliable ferry system that addresses the unique challenges of our waters and provides critical transportation services for our people. I deeply appreciate the dedication and hard work of the COTA team and everyone involved in pushing this initiative forward.”
COTA is committed to engaging stakeholders and the public throughout the study process to ensure transparency and community involvement. Residents and businesses are encouraged to share their insights and participate in shaping the future of inter-island and land-based transportation.
For further inquiries or to provide input, please contact the Commonwealth Office of Transit Authority at (670) 664-2682 or via email at alfredac.maratita@gov.mp/.
