Community Corner
Ferry Fares Will Go Up By Just $1 Per Trip On Weekdays And $2 On Weekends
DOT announces that fares will be raised in two stages starting July 8, 2013 and the beginning of the 2014 ferry season.
The Department of Transportation heard from the communities served by the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury and Chester-Hadlyme ferries and has decided instead of doubling the fare to take a trip on either vessel, the fare will go up by just $1 on weekdays and $2 on weekends.
Beginning in 2014, the weekdays will be up $2 to $5 and weekends up $3 to $6 per trip.
Following two public meetings in May to discuss increasing fares on the two Connecticut River Ferries, Commissioner James P. Redeker announced that fares will be raised in two stages. The first increase will be on July 8, 2013, and the second increase will occur at the beginning of the ferry season in 2014.
“We are committed to maintaining the ferry operations serving residents, commuters, tourists, pedestrians and bicyclists alike. The ferries are an important part of the regional history and serve transportation, recreation and tourism roles,” stated Commissioner Redeker. “Fares have not been increased since 2003, while operational costs have been rising. Our initial proposal was to double existing fares, but the input we received at our public meetings supported a more modest, phased-in approach.”
After considering the substantial public comments and suggestions, the fares will be raised in two stages to reflect stakeholder concerns. Under the plan announced today, as of July 8, 2013:
- Fares for walk-on passengers and bicyclists will be increased from $1 per crossing to $2
- Weekday vehicle fares will be increased from the current $3 per crossing to $4
- The weekend fare for vehicles will be increased from $3 to $5.
- The price of the Discount Coupon Book that now costs $40 for a book of 20 tickets will be increased to $50.
- Fares for walk-on passengers and bicyclists will remain at $2
- Weekday vehicle fares will be increased to $5
- The weekend vehicle fare will be increased to $6
- The price for the 20-ticket Discount Coupon Book will be increased to $60.
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