TPA Congratulates Rochester on Successful Ferry Bid
Begins Final Finish of Passenger Terminal Construction

Toronto, February 28, 2005

"Rochester Mayor William Johnson Jr. should be congratulated and praised for his tireless efforts to keep the dream of the Rochester-Toronto Fast Ferry alive,” said Henry Pankratz, Chair, Toronto Port Authority (TPA).

"Today’s successful acquisition of the Spirit of Ontario by the city of Rochester's Ferry Co. means that the Toronto Port Authority will now proceed with finishing the interior of the Toronto Passenger Terminal to Canadian Customs specifications.”

The final interior finishing phase of the Toronto terminal is scheduled to take 75 days.  Currently, the building is completely enclosed, heated, escalator and elevator in place and some common areas, such as washrooms and utility rooms, have been finished.

"We are collaborating with Rochester Ferry Co. on their launch plans and look forward to receiving the first vessel,” said Lisa Raitt, TPA President and CEO.  “Today’s successful outcome is wonderful economic news for our cities and will be a terrific boost for tourism on both sides of the border.  The TPA will work closely with the new Ferry Company and the Rochester, Toronto, and Ontario/State tourism departments to maximize this opportunity.

The 38,000 sq. ft. terminal, located on a 10 acre site, consists of a spacious main floor and a second storey boarding area.  The main floor houses Customs, the Arrival and Departure lounges and passenger amenities.  The second floor is equipped with an adjustable passenger bridge between the vessel and the building’s debarkation second floor area.  The bridge is designed to accommodate the yearly fluctuating level of Lake Ontario as well as the vessel’s own fluctuating weight as it takes on passengers and vehicles.  There is parking for 200 cars adjacent to the terminal.

The Toronto Port Authority, established in 1999 under the Canada Marine Act, operates the Port of Toronto, the Toronto City Centre Airport and the Outer Harbour Marina.  It is also responsible for navigational and environmental matters in the waters under its jurisdiction.