Oakland Alameda Water Shuttle Launches with Issues

The Oakland Alameda Water Shuttle, a free ferry service connecting Jack London Square in Oakland to Alameda Landing, launched on Wednesday but faced an immediate mechanical issue that required suspension of service until Friday. The 45-foot vessel, named Woodstock, is part of a two-year pilot program aimed at assessing demand for a permanent pedestrian and bike-friendly connection across the Oakland Estuary. Funded by multiple local entities, the shuttle can accommodate 31 passengers and 14 bikes and operates five days a week. The pilot program is designed to improve transit options between Oakland and Alameda, where the only current pedestrian and bike pathway is a narrow, often dirty footpath. The service is ADA accessible and aims to enhance visitor access and reduce reliance on cars.