This unanimous commission decision, made on 18 November 2025, will see the 75-car passenger/vehicle ferry reduce emissions significantly, with construction starting early in 2026 and completion targeted for summer 2029. The project, partly funded by a USD 20 million US Department of Transportation grant, underscores the ferry's role as vital infrastructure linking Lewes, Delaware, and Cape May, New Jersey.

DRBA Executive Director Joel Coppadge highlighted the vessel's historical and future importance: “For sustainable ferry operations in the future, it’s imperative we make this necessary capital investment today. The new hybrid ferry is the start of the next chapter in the proud history of the Cape May–Lewes Ferry. ”The eco-friendly design promises lower operating costs, 35% less fuel use, and annual emission cuts including 2,025 tonnes of carbon dioxide, 102.7 tonnes of nitrogen dioxide, 1.51 tonnes of fine particulate matter, 1.03 tonnes of hydrocarbons, and 5 tonnes of carbon monoxide—achieving zero emissions in port.

Director of Ferry Operations Heath Gehrke added: “The Cape May–Lewes Ferry is a vital transportation link and an economic catalyst... By moving forward with our vessel modernisation effort, we’re ensuring that future generations will continue to enjoy a break from the ordinary.”

The contract awaits a ten-day review by the Governors of New Jersey and Delaware.

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