Despite Beautiful Memorial Day And Ferry Not Running, Ferry Park Was Bustling - Photo Gallery

There has been a lot of talk recently about the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry, mostly centering on the Department of Transportation's proposal to raise the fare for a ride from $3 to $6.

What gets lost in this conversation is that Ferry Park is a vital and bustling Park even when the Ferry is not running.

The Ferry is the longest continuously running Ferry in the United States and is a historical landmark. 

While Rocky Hill residents like that fact and like their history, the Park is much more than just the Ferry. 

"We love to come here with the dogs and let them go into the river and just have a great time," said a resident who wished not to give her name. "The Ferry is a great thing but there are a lot of things to do here. Look around, this place is packed."

The middle row of the parking lot, which was filled on Memorial Day, is reserved for those vehicles with boats of jet skis in tow. This puts a strain on those hoping to secure a spot in the lot. Many park on the road in a gravel lot. 

On the beautiful Memorial Day there were sun bathers, a large group having a picnic, many enjoying the treats at the restaurant on the premises, and others in groups of two and three and four sitting in lawn chairs enjoying the scenery and weather.

"The state didn't think through this proposal to double the fare for the Ferry," said a woman who said she was a resident of Rocky Hill. "We don't go on the Ferry very often but it is a source of pride. We love coming down here and just relaxing by the water. It can't run today because of the high water level but it's nice to see it come and go when it's running.

"The state should look at their own expenses first before trying to double the fare here. Look at how many cars and vehicles the state has and how they abuse that luxury. If the state came down and actually saw how many people use this park or other things they would realize what a valuable resource it is."