Construction on Wolfe Island docks to begin this fall

The Ontario government is investing $63.3 million to rebuild the Marysville ferry dock on Wolfe Island and $82.5 million for the Kingston dock, Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, and Daryl Kramp, MPP for Hastings-Lennox and Addington, stated in an announcement today, Friday, Aug. 28, 2020.

This investment is part of the province’s plan to keep Ontario’s transportation safe and reliable, while supporting economic growth and the creation of local jobs, read the statement.

“Ferry service is vital to the economies of island communities and their residents and businesses who rely on ferries daily,” said MPP Clark. “By investing in ferry infrastructure, we are supporting growth and job creation for the entire region.”

MPP Kramp continued Clark’s sentiments: “These projects will provide a better experience for ferry travellers who will have more space and a more efficient process while boarding and exiting the ferry. These improvements will make a huge difference, especially for those who rely on this service in their daily lives.”

The projects hope to improve efficiency for boarding passengers and goods by increasing the size of the the docks and loading areas. According to the release, the new docks will improve safety by providing separation for pedestrians and cyclists from vehicles. They will also feature the addition of new passenger waiting areas. Construction on the Marysville dock is slated to begin in early September, and the Kingston dock construction is expected to start in the fall.

“Investing in projects that improve the reliability and safety of transportation is an important part of our plan to improve our transportation network in eastern Ontario,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. “These investments will help prepare for the new, larger Wolfe Island ferry which will provide increased service for passengers and better access to goods on the island.”

Quick Facts, as outlined in the statement:

• The province is currently developing the first regional transportation plan for eastern Ontario, to be released in 2021.
• In July 2020, work began on the first contract awarded for the Wolfe Island Docks Project to lower parts of the St. Lawrence channel to accommodate for the future arrival of the new, larger Wolfe Island ferry.