Due to service cutbacks by the privately-owned Hy-Line, the Steamship Authority is considering a Nantucket route for the new $40 million ferry Woods Hole, now under construction in Louisiana, boat line governor Marc Hanover said.
In light of persistent traffic problems in downtown Vineyard Haven, the town is asking the Steamship Authority to look at alternative sites for the Island’s main ferry terminal. The Steamship Authority has agreed to look into the issue but has not committed to a study.
When the Steamship Authority governors meet Tuesday in Woods Hole, there will be a new face at the table. Falmouth selectmen have appointed scientist Elizabeth Gladfelter as their new representative on the boat line’s executive board.
Renovation of the Woods Hole terminal was the chief topic of conversation at a special meeting held on the Vineyard Tuesday. The meeting was convened in response to concern from Island residents about Steamship Authority spending and rate increases.
In an effort to improve communication with Islanders, the Steamship Authority will hold a special public meeting Tuesday, March 10, at the regional high school’s performing arts center.
After nearly three days out of service because of repair work to the ship's service generator, the Island Home will be back in commission starting Thursday evening.
While it may feel like more cars flood Martha’s Vineyard each year, new data released by the Steamship Authority tell a different story. Graphs released this week show that over the past five years, Vineyard ferry traffic has seen slight annual gains.
Don’t rock the boat. That was the slogan plastered on buttons and bumper stickers in the 1990s when Islanders went to Beacon Hill to fight for control of the Steamship Authority, the boat line that is their lifeline.
The following letter was sent to the Steamship Authority:
I appreciate the chance to provide comment. For many years I used to attend the SSA meetings on a regular basis and have long felt that transportation issues are some of the most pressing facing the Islands. Previous commitments as well as age and arthritis prevent me from attending today, and I have asked Catherine Bumpus to hand you this communication as well as read it into the record.
