Work underway on Prudence Ferry dock

Parking, car transport to island disrupted during six-week project

EastBayRI.com ·

Demolition is wrapping up as workers pull up the concrete ramp at the Prudence Island Ferry dock in anticipation of next week’s construction.

Workers from SumCo Eco Contracting are expected to begin installing new sheet piling next week as construction on the new ramp gets underway, according to Bristol Harbormaster Gregg Marsili. The $177,000 project — the cost of which is divided among Bristol, Portsmouth and ferry operator A&R Marine — includes 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.

The project is expected to last six weeks, Mr. Marsili said, during which time there are disruptions to travelers and Prudence Island residents. While the ramp is being constructed, cars cannot access the ferry, leaving A&R to offer walk-on service only. Trash trucks, oil tankers and delivery trucks are still able to access A&R’s landing craft to maintain services on the island, Mr. Marsili said.

Parking in Bristol has been disrupted during the project, as the ferry lot is closed. The town has leased space in the the lot across Thames Street from the Robin Rug factory, and passengers can find parking on surrounding streets or in municipal lots. The Bristol ticket office has been 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.

A&R Marine, operating as Prudence & Bay Islands Transport, reports on its website that the work should be done in four to six weeks. Mr. Marsili reiterated that timeline.

“Construction should start next week,” he said. “A couple more weeks and it’ll be over. I hope.”

Prudence Island Ferry