At a Wednesday hearing of the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission, officials discussed a settlement that would lift the round‑trip fare for the Prudence Island ferry to $16.80 – an increase of more than $6 and the first rise in a decade.
Community reaction
Longtime island resident Bernard McKay voiced the concerns of many year‑round families, stressing that the ferry is a lifeline. “Ferry service is essential for people obtaining medical care from the mainland,” McKay said. “This is about an island that is completely dependent on this lifeline service.”
Operator’s position
A&R Marine, the ferry’s operator, indicated it prefers a gradual approach to any future rate adjustments. The proposed settlement amount is lower than the company’s original request, reflecting its willingness to keep fares as affordable as possible while covering rising costs.
Vice President Daniel Antaya explained why fares have remained static for ten years. He cited pandemic‑related delays and a recent setback in the rate‑study process after the firm’s legal counsel departed, forcing a search for new representation and further postponing the review.
Commission scrutiny
Commission Chairman Ronald Gerwatowski questioned the lengthy period without a fare increase. “What really strikes me as something that’s very difficult to understand is that your company waited 10 years,” he remarked, underscoring the commission’s duty to ensure that essential services remain financially sustainable.
Potential broader impact
Other regional ferry operators, including Interstate Transportation, which runs the Block Island service, are reportedly evaluating similar fare adjustments, though no formal decisions have been announced.
The proposed settlement will now move forward for further review, with the commission expected to balance the island’s need for affordable transportation against the operator’s cost realities. Residents and local leaders are urging the commission to consider the island’s unique dependence on the ferry when finalizing any rate changes.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
