It’s been nearly six months since Hurricane Helene caused massive storm surge flooding on Anna Maria Island leaving business owners and residents to rebuild.

(WWSB) - Effective Jan. 23, the Gulf Islands Ferry Service will operate a two-stop system from the downtown Bradenton Riverwalk Pier to the Historic Bridge Street Pier on Anna Maria Island.

Manatee County announced new springtime hours for the Gulf Islands Ferry service that runs from Bradenton to Anna Maria Island.

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce estimates that more than 50% of businesses have reopened, including restaurants, shops, and accommodations.