SISTERSVILLE, W.Va. — City leaders announced this week that a replacement vessel to revive the historic Sistersville Ferry has been located, moving the long-running effort to restore river service a step closer to reality.
Sistersville Mayor Bill Rice told the Sistersville Ferry Board a boat was found in Pittsburgh to replace the tow boat that took on water this spring and suffered damage deemed beyond repair.
Where the money stands
The city’s insurance company has agreed to contribute $162,000 toward the purchase. Officials estimate the total cost of the replacement vessel at about $250,000. Local elected leaders are working to raise an additional $60,000, though the board reports a remaining funding gap of roughly $30,000.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Insurance payout | $162,000 |
| Estimated vessel cost | $250,000 |
| Additional funds being pursued | $60,000 |
| Remaining gap reported | $30,000 |
Community impacts and next steps
Officials said the ferry’s barge was not damaged and remains serviceable. City leaders emphasized the importance of restoring the ferry, which carries vehicles across the Ohio River between Sistersville and Fly, Ohio.
The Sistersville Ferry is one of only five ferries still operating on the Ohio River and the only ferry in the upper 427 miles of the river. It is also the lone remaining ferry crossing between West Virginia and Ohio, making its return a priority for local officials and residents who rely on the connection.
- Mayor Bill Rice and the Ferry Board located the replacement boat in Pittsburgh.
- The city’s insurer will provide $162,000 toward the purchase.
- Local leaders are soliciting donations and voluntary business contributions to close the funding shortfall.
Officials say the Ferry Board has the authority to cover the purchase if necessary, but doing so would reduce operating funds for the year and could affect day-to-day service. The city is asking for donations from residents and voluntary contributions from local businesses to avoid that outcome.
Restoration of the vessel would preserve a unique transportation link and a regional attraction that supports tourism and local commerce. For now, the focus is on closing the remaining financial gap so the replacement boat can be purchased and the ferry returned to operation.
— Colton McRae, West Virginia Correspondent
