I just read the Cape Gazette article and the editorial regarding the new hybrid ferry and how wonderful these “state-of-the-art” ferries will be. They were described as being slightly smaller with a capacity for 75 cars and 400 people and will save 35% in fuel consumption. However, they were going to be 20% to 30% more expensive and involve additional costs to build recharging stations on both sides of the bay. I did an online search for the size of the current Cape May-Lewes ferries. The search provided a description of the current ferry as having a capacity for appoximately 100 cars and more than 800 passengers! Based on the numbers presented, the new hybrid ferries will carry at least 25% fewer cars and 50% less passengers! I guess they would use 35% less fuel than our current ferries, not because they are hybrids, but because they are significantly smaller.
So, we are spending more money for less ferry. Sounds like a typical government project! Also don't forget the cost for the large charging stations on each side of Delaware Bay. It often amazes me how, when one has all the facts, one discovers projects are often overhyped and do not deliver true savings. Facts, just the facts, is the most important fact.
-
A letter to the editor expresses a reader's opinion and, as such, is not reflective of the editorial opinions of this newspaper.
To submit a letter to the editor for publishing, send an email to newsroom@capegazette.com. Letters must be signed and include a telephone number and address for verification. Please keep letters to 500 words or fewer. We reserve the right to edit for content and length. Letters should be responsive to issues addressed in the Cape Gazette rather than content from other publications or media. Only one letter per author will be published every 30 days. Letters restating information and opinions already offered by the same author will not be used. Letters must focus on issues of general, local concern, not personalities or specific businesses.
