New Orleans, LA- The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) announced today that its ferry service has officially surpassed 5 million passenger trips, marking a significant milestone for cross-river transportation connecting Algiers Point, Canal Street, and Chalmette to Lower Algiers. 

“This achievement demonstrates that the work we do every day to improve the quality of service is headed in the right direction” said RTA CEO Lona Edwards Hankins. “It speaks to the trust our riders place in ferry service and to the commitment of the crews and teams who keep this critical cross-river connection safe and reliable 

In December 2019, RTA strengthened oversight of ferry operations through a competitive procurement process for the specialized maritime service. Through that process, RTA selected LabMar Ferry Services, a locally based maritime operator affiliated with Laborde Marine, as its operating partner with a clear mandate: restore reliability, prioritize safety, and rebuild public trust in ferry service. 

Since then, RTA and LabMar teams have worked side by side to deliver consistent ferry operations connecting Algiers Point, Canal Street, and Chalmette to Lower Algiers. Ferry service has once again become a dependable option for residents, workers, students, and visitors traveling across the Mississippi River. 

The ferry system plays a critical role in regional mobility by supporting economic activity, reducing congestion, and reconnecting communities across the river. Surpassing five million passenger trips underscores the importance of sustained investment and strong partnerships in maintaining reliable public transportation for the region.

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The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority is a sub-division of the State of Louisiana which is operated by an independent Board of Commissioners that serves Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Bernard Parishes. The agency operates car and passenger ferries, fixed-route buses, Paratransit, and streetcar services. For updates, service alerts, and agency news, follow the RTA on social media: @neworleansrta on Instagram, X (Twitter), and Facebook, and New Orleans Regional Transit Authority on LinkedIn.