Work to begin on Prudence Island Ferry dock in Bristol

Workers are expected to begin preparations for significant repairs to the Prudence Island Ferry Dock on Thames Street this week, causing travel and parking disruptions around the Bristol dock.

Workers will begin staging for the project on Thursday, and the work is scheduled to fully begin on April 10. The repairs would include the installation of a new, higher-capacity ramp and gallows which would reduce the need for higher-cost alternatives and ensure safe, continued service for Prudence residents, according to Stephen Antaya, president of ferry operator A&R Marine.

During the six-week construction period, the ferry will carry only walk-on passengers. A&R has added extra ferry runs through this weekend to allow people to make arrangements with their cars.

The ferry lot in Bristol will be closed for parking throughout the project, beginning Thursday. Travelers are advised to find parking on surrounding streets or use municipal lots around Bristol. The town is also leasing space in the Robin Rug parking lot. Residents can register for a free parking permit at the Prudence office, according to A&R’s website.

The Bristol ticket office will be relocated to the Maritime Center on Thames Street during construction. Anyone needing wheelchair accessibility for the ferry is asked to call the Prudence Office at 401- 683-0430 at least 24 hours in advance.

For more information on the project throughout the construction period, visit A&R’s website at prudencebayislandstransport.com.