Residents, Politicians, Activists Celebrate Ferry

A private foundation hosted an opening ceremony for the 357th season of the Saturday morning.

The was established to improve the operations of both Connecticut ferries (Rocky Hill-Glastonbury and Chester-Hadlyme). The group, which began as , has attracted interest from being served by the two state-administered ferries. In late February, the organization filed the necessary paperwork with the Secretary of the State's office to be established as a .

On Saturday morning, about 20 people took a free voyage from Rocky Hill to Glastonbury and back on the ferry. And several more came to watch them off.

"Today is a appreciation cruise for the Friends of the CT River Ferries," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Maritime Manager Charles Beck. "This is a chance to thank them for all their support."

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Gov. Dannel  and laying off workers to help address the deficit in his budget last year, if the union workers did not agree to his concessions plan. Employee unions reached a in late July and the ferries were saved.

Beck said the Friends of the CT River Ferries and other citizens cannot stop "their commitment to keep the historic ferries" running. State Rep. Prasad Srinivasan, R-31, echoed those sentiments and said the people of Connecticut must keep the ferries running and prevent it from being a victim of future budget cuts.

"We want to make every effort that this (the ferries) is not on the cutting block," he said.

The DOT is currently in the process of , one captain and one deck hand, to bring the ferry to a full schedule (Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays), possibly in June.

However, Saturday was a chance for residents to enjoy a piece of history and relax while taking a leisure ride across the Connecticut River.

"And don't forgot next year, the first Saturday in May," said Paul Carr of the Friends of the CT River Ferries. "We will do this again next year."

The ferry, which dates back to 1655, is open Monday through Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fees for riding the ferry are:

• $3 for motor vehicle
• $2 for commuter rate (requires pre-purchased commuter coupons)
• $1 for pedestrians and bicyclist

For more information about the Friends of the CT River Ferries, people are asked to email Carr at ghcop2008@yahoo.com or visit their Facebook page.