Commuting into (or around) DC has been a problem in NOVA for many years. Local and state officials have been working to find solutions to lessen highway traffic. Currently, the state is pursuing funding for high-speed rail.

Prince William officials have also been discussing the possibility of a ferry, according to an article on InsideNova.com. A recent study said a commuter ferry would be possible, but would come with a substantial price tag.

At least $30 million in improvements would need to be made before a ferry service could even start.

Area homeowners would welcome a new way to get into DC for work and entertainment; and improvements to the congestion problems would make the area more appealing to new residents.

"Prince William transportation officials say a commuter ferry is possible, but it is going to cost big money.

County officials have been exploring using the Potomac River for getting workers into Washington, and from Maryland to Fort Belvoir in Virginia. But the results of a new feasibility study released Tuesday state that $30 million in improvements are needed before the first boat launches.

The study examined the potential for ferry service between Prince William and Fairfax counties in Virginia and Prince George's and Charles counties in Maryland.

Three potential ferry routes were studied: one from Woodbridge to the Anacostia waterfront in Washington, one from Marshall Hall, Md., to the waterfront and the last from Marshall Hall to Fort Belvoir.

The one-way trip from Woodbridge to Washington is expected to take an hour, while the trip from Marshall Hall will take half that time, according to the study. A one-way trip from Marshall Hall to Fort Belvoir—connecting Maryland commuters to the Army base—would take about 10 minutes, and is considered the most viable route, according to the study.

The $30 million needed for improvements, such as river dredging, docks, parking lots, sidewalks and passenger waiting areas, would need to be paid for with local government funds, said Prince William County transportation director Thomas Blaser.

The ferry would cost $4 million per year to operate, with fare collection going to offset $1.5 million of the anticipated costs. If approved, the service could be implemented in as soon as three years.

'I think two years would be a little optimistic, so I think anywhere between three to five years to begin the service would be a good estimate, if it is approved,' said Blaser.

The study anticipates eight boats will be needed to start service, with all of them making about 20 roundtrips per day. The boats originating in Prince William would carry 99 passengers, cruise at about 34 mph and include amenities such as wireless Internet access, TVs and a snack bar."

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