Bristol-Providence ferry service to kick off Wednesday, what you should know

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Transportation announced Monday that the proposed ferry service to take commuters from Bristol to Providence will kick off on Wednesday.

According to RIDOT, the ferry service, provided by Seastreak and the Block Island Ferry, will start Dec. 20 –weather permitting — for travelers impacted by the partial closure of the Washington Bridge.

The ferry service will run seven days a week at 30 minute intervals between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Those who wish to use the ferry can board at the State Street Dock in Bristol at 127 Thames St. The Bristol Maritime Center will also be open for waiting passengers.

Free parking will also be available at Colt State Park where riders can access a RIPTA shuttle to the dock. Shuttles will be available to take returning passengers to their parked cars at designated times in the afternoon and evening.

The ferry will be docking at 25 Portugal Pkwy. in Providence and about 120 spaces of free parking will be available on-site.

RIDOT says it plans to offer the service for a total of 99 days until March 29, 2024.