Bristol-Providence ferry delayed for second time due to mechanical issue

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Bristol-Providence ferry was delayed a second time on Wednesday, this time due to a mechanical issue.

The delay was the latest hiccup since the Washington Bridge closure a week and a half ago.

The Department of Transportation said there was an issue with a crane that is used to position a floating dock for passengers to get on and off board.

Director Peter Alviti said the ferry service will help relieve commuters during the work on the bridge, which may take around three months to complete.

The ferry was originally set to begin service on Monday, but it wasn’t possible due to the heavy wind and rain.

The aftermath of the storm included significant localized flooding as well as downed trees and mass power outages.

The ferry service will now start at 6 a.m. Thursday.

A ferry will run every half hour from Bristol to Providence until 7 p.m.

Alviti said the ferry can transport a thousand people every hour.

The ferry is set to run until March 29, 2024.