The Connecticut Department of Transportation’s (CTDOT) Office of Engineering is developing plans to install operational upgrades at the Rocky Hill/Glastonbury Ferry site to improve both customer service and safety. The Connecticut river ferries are an iconic and historic transportation system that have been a part of the state’s transportation network since the 17th century. The Rocky Hill/Glastonbury Ferry is the oldest continuously running ferry service with service starting in 1655 and the Chester/Hadlyme ferry service dating back to 1769.
The project will involve the installation of a decorate fence and gate system at the Glastonbury and Rocky Hill locations. This will protect the ferry when docked for the evening (Rocky Hill), as well as prevent unauthorized access to the slip outside of operations (Glastonbury and Rocky Hill). The project will also involve the installation of sidewalks for better access in Rocky Hill and benches for those who enjoy watching the loading/unloading of cars and interacting with the ferry crew. Sidewalk and lighting improvements to achieve better pedestrian access will also be addressed as a part of this project.
The proposed work will take place during the operating season of the ferry, lasting approximately six weeks from July 16, 2025, to August 26, 2025. Given the nature of the project it is anticipated that there will be minimal impacts to the operation of the ferry between Rocky Hill and Glastonbury. The Department will work closely with the contractor to ensure that work that may impact ferry operations is conducted outside the operating hours of the ferry as much as possible. There will be limited impact to the adjacent parking lots during this time for contractor laydown and staging of equipment.
The present schedule indicates that the design will be completed on November 4, 2024, with construction anticipated to be underway in the summer of 2025, assuming acceptance of the project and availability of funding. This project will be undertaken with 100 percent (100%) state funds.
It is the CTDOT’s policy to keep the public informed and involved when such projects are undertaken. It is important that the community share its concerns with the CTDOT to assist in the project's development. If anyone has any questions or comments on this project, contact Mr. Adam G. Fox, Principal Engineer, at (860) 594-3298 or by e-mail at Adam.Fox@ct.gov. Please refer to State Project No. 0118-0188PE.