Plans to operate a fast ferry service across Lake Ponchartrain are still in the works.

They have received permits from several federal and state agencies to operate.

A south shore landing site appears to be the only hurdle remaining.

Pontchartrain Express Owner Johan Schild considers one site, at the Industrial Canal, a done deal.

"We have a lease with the Ponchartrain Landings, the RV park, subject to approval from the Port of New Orleans," says Pontchartrain Express founder and owner Johan Schild.

He says that's his preferred site.

"That's the one that is best located for the people going downtown."

But Schild is also looking at landing sites in Kenner by the casino, near the Causeway and at Bonnabel.

"The other ones...the ones in Metairie and Kenner to the airport...that's why we have the petition to do that, so we can go to the state and the Jefferson levee boards."

That petition is one seeking commuter support for the fast ferry service that he hopes to take to Governor Jindal's office.    

Click here to access the Ponchartrain Express petition

The Mandeville departure point is already set, on the site of the former pre-stressed concrete plant near Sunset Point, though the plan still needs to be approved by city officials. Mandeville officials have been supportive of the venture in the past, even offering Sunset Point as a possible embarkation point for the ferry service.

Schild said he's also looking at an eventual northshore departure point in Slidell.

He says the proposed ferry will now use jets, instead of propellers, to protect wildlife like manatees.

The ferry should be able to cross the lake in about 40 minutes and shuttles will be waiting on the south shore to take commuters to a variety of locations in New Orleans and Jefferson Parish.

Schild is hopeful he can have the initial service up and running this fall.

"If everything works out, it will be in September or October."