Connecticut Upgrades Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry for Safety

Connecticut’s historic ferry service is set to receive significant upgrades as the season concludes. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced plans to invest $533,335 in safety and accessibility improvements for the Rocky Hill–Glastonbury Ferry, the longest continuously operated ferry in the United States. The upgrades will focus on both the Rocky Hill and Glastonbury landings and are expected to enhance the overall experience for the thousands who rely on this vital transportation link each year.

These improvements include the installation of decorative fencing, gates, and lighting to enhance security when the ferry is docked. According to CTDOT, these measures aim to prevent unauthorized access to the ferry. In addition, new sidewalks, ramps, and pedestrian connections will be constructed on the Rocky Hill side, improving access from the adjacent park. Amenities such as benches will also be added to create a more welcoming environment for passengers.

The Rocky Hill–Glastonbury Ferry has been transporting passengers and vehicles across the Connecticut River since 1655, making it a historic fixture in the region. CTDOT Deputy Commissioner Laoise King emphasized the agency’s commitment to ensuring the ferry remains safe and accessible for all users. “These improvements will enhance security, pedestrian access, and the overall experience for the thousands who rely on this historic crossing each year,” King stated.

The project is set to commence immediately after the ferry season ends on November 30, 2023, and is expected to continue through the spring of 2026. Colossale Siteworks Corporation has been selected to carry out the construction work.

In addition to the Rocky Hill–Glastonbury Ferry, the state’s second ferry, the Chester–Hadlyme Ferry, has already benefited from similar upgrades, underlining CTDOT’s ongoing commitment to improving ferry services across Connecticut.

Other ferry services in Connecticut, such as the Bridgeport-Port Jefferson Ferry, the Cross Sound Ferry, and the Block Island Express Ferry, are privately owned and operate independently of state oversight. The upgrades to the Rocky Hill–Glastonbury Ferry highlight the importance of preserving and enhancing this historic mode of transportation for future generations.