New ferry to honor late transportation leader
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| June 24, 2026 | ||
| GALVESTON – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the Texas Transportation Commission are honored to announce a new ferry vessel dedicated to the late Chairman J. Bruce Bugg, Jr., on behalf of the captains and crew of the state ferry system. Chairman Bugg was a champion for transportation advancement across Texas, with a steadfast dedication to improving safety and expanding connectivity. He served on the commission for 10 years, including eight years as chairman, until his passing in August 2025. “This is a small gesture to recognize and commemorate the tremendous impact Chairman Bugg had on Texas,” said Acting Chairman Alvin New. “His leadership and vision led to infrastructure development that will leave a lasting legacy for generations of Texans.” During Chairman Bugg’s years of service to TxDOT, the agency more than tripled the number of projects under active construction. Chairman Bugg spearheaded the Texas Clear Lanes initiative to reduce congestion in metro areas in 2015, which now has completed more than $80 billion in construction projects. The “J. Bruce Bugg, Jr.” ferry will join the Galveston-Port Bolivar fleet and is expected to launch in 2029. It will carry nearly 500 passengers and 70 cars on each trip, plus six crew members. The vessel will have a salon deck, observation decks and main decks for passengers to enjoy the view on their journeys. The new ferry will join Galveston’s fleet honoring former Texas Transportation Commission chairs. The Texas Transportation Commission approved a contract of $79.9 million to build the ferry at its June meeting. |
