Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry Riders: Fare Hikes Won't Affect Us

With traffic on I-91 congested, the lines for the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry were longer than usual Friday afternoon.

Despite the fact the Department of Transportation announced Thursday night it will increase the fares to take the ferry beginning July 8, riders didn't seem to care on this day.

"I picked up my grandson in Wallingford and saw the traffic so we decided to take this diversion," said Kathryn Boris of Glastonbury. "It's a great opportunity to take my grandson and tell him a little about the history of Glastonbury and Rocky Hill."

When she was asked if the rate increase would discourage her from taking the ferry, Boris said, "Not in the slightest. I used to take it a lot when I was younger but we still take it with my husband quite a bit. Sometimes we'll just take it over and have coffee and hang out in the park for a bit and ride the ferry back." 

Beginning in 2014, the weekdays will be up $2 to $5 and weekends up $3 to $6 per trip. 

“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,” said James P. Redeker, the acting commissioner of the state Department of Transportation. “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.”

Barbara Ho waited in line for the ferry for a short time to get back to her Glastonbury home.

"There was horrible traffic on 91 and the Putnam Bridge," said Ho, a Glastonbury resident. "This might seem like it takes longer but I would do anything not to sit in traffic. I feel like I would have a heart attack if I sit in that traffic. It's a very nice break from the normal."

Ho was curious if her coupon book would still be honored after the fare increase. Calls to the DOT to ask the question were not returned.

Beginning on 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.