RIPTA tries to revive Providence-to-Newport ferry
5:35 PM Wed, Mar 25, 2009 | Permalink
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PROVIDENCE -- Rhode Island Public Transit Authority officials said today that they will try to revive the Providence-to-Newport ferry that had apparently ended last fall when federal grants subsidizing it ran out. 
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If they do this I hope the coasties keep a better watch on their operating practices.
These ferry operators were the bullies of the bay, crossing other smaller traffic without the right of way, with no regard to anyone elses safety. Very Scary.
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Perfect way to boost the economy!
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It's great to hear that the Providence/Newport Ferry will be revived.
But, unless the ferry service docks at Wickenden St., as it did in the past, my family will NEVER, EVER take it again. Where it docks now in Providence is in the middle of nowhere.
The Allens Avenue dock is a dump! Individuals are dependent upon waiting for a bus to get you into Providence, and if you happen to have your dog with you, you cannot board the bus. You'll have to take a taxi, another expense, to get into the ciy.
Another disadvantage of the Allens Ave. dock is that it is in a seedy area with cheap mens clubs that attracts the usual unsavory characters. I would not recommend to anyone to walk from the Allens Ave. dock into Providence. It simply isn't safe. I know because my wife and I, along with our daughter and dog tried it once-what a mistake.
When the Ferry docked at Wickenden St. it was absolutely great. It was incredibly convenient. From there you can walk to Wickenden St., to the center of the city and, if one was so inclined, even walk to the Mall or even Federal Hill. We actually did that once.
The only reason I could understand why the Ferry dock was moved from the Wickenden St. dock to the Allens Ave. dock is because the latter's dock must be privately owned. Damned the public's convenience, profit comes first!!!
Sadly, this situation is most unfortuante because the Ferry ride from Newport to Providence is exhilarating and lots of fun!
For our next Providence trip this summer my family will be taking the car from Newport.
I do hope that in the future someone with authoriy and intelligence will ascertain that the Wickenden St. dock is the one best suited for the public.
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I was sad to read the Providence to Newport Ferry will not run this summer. My family and I had a great time on it last year. I would be willing to pay a higher ticket price to see it run again.
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