Anna Maria city officials want to be first at the table to discuss a proposed Manatee County water taxi service.
City commissioners reached consensus Sept. 8 to move forward with a revised interlocal agreement that would allow the water taxi to embark passengers at the Anna Maria City Pier.
As proposed, the water taxi service would run 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday between downtown Bradenton, the Anna Maria City Pier and the Historic Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach.
The service would employ two 45- to 50-foot boats that would carry 35-45 passengers, with a one-way fare of no more than $10. Island employees would be able to ride to and from work for free.
The city’s proposal includes several requirements in exchange for allowing the service to dock at the pier, including:
- Anna Maria would be designated the only stop “to and from downtown Bradenton.”
- The county would assume all legal liability for the operation of the water taxi;
- The county must pay for improvements, permits, maintenance and any studies needed to provide adequate dockage for the water taxi vessel, as well as detailed plans for improvements for city approval;
- Water taxi fares between Anna Maria and Bradenton would be subject to city commission approval;
- The purpose of the service would “relieve automobile congestion coming to and from the island” and “provide an affordable means of public transportation to and from the island for visitors, residents and service workers.”
The terms now go to the county for review.
There was no public comment.
The commission will meet next at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, at city hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. Directions to attend can be found at cityofannamaria.com.