Tennessee Department of Transportation launches new ferry-barge pushboat

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) launched a new ferry pushboat, The Summitt, in December, which is now in service connecting Benton and Houston Counties.

The $3,298,000 Summitt was built by McGinnis shipyard in South Point, Ohio, and replaces a 67-year-old predecessor. It will run 365 days a year, pushing the vehicle-carrying barge, The Volunteer, across the Tennessee River.

The drive train comprises a John Deere 6090AFM85 diesel delivering 285bhp (212kW) at 2,100 rpm to a 44-inch Michigan Wheel four-bladed propeller via Twin Disc MG-5091DC gearboxes.

The vessel adheres to the stringent EPA Tier 3 emissions standards, ensuring lower environmental impact. Safety is further bolstered by custom McGinnis side fendering and Schuyler fenders positioned on both the bow and stern.

The pushboat features a high fuel capacity of 4,060 gallons distributed between a forward tank holding 2,880 gallons and an aft tank with 1,180 gallons.

TDOT is responsible for the operation of two ferries: the Benton-Houston Ferry on the Tennessee River and the Cumberland City Ferry located on the Cumberland River in Stewart County.