State Senator Norm Needleman (D-33) applauded the Department of Transportation’s announcement that service on the state’s Connecticut River ferries will be extended by seven weeks, continuing to Oct. 25. While the schedule was initially slated to end on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7, Connecticut’s success in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic over the summer led state leaders to extend service between Chester and Hadlyme and between Rocky Hill and Glastonbury.

“These ferries provide a great service to members of our community, and I’m encouraged that the state’s success in keeping COVID-19 in check has led to their services continuing into late October,” said Needleman. “It’s a very promising sign that will additionally allow for many more to continue using these charming ferry services for work and recreation into the autumn. I do want to remind ferry riders to continue following COVID guidelines including social distancing and wearing masks to ensure this schedule remains in place.”

The Department of Transportation will continue to monitor conditions and potential budget issues. It will made changes or modifications to services as deemed necessary. The Chester-Hadlyme ferry operates between 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. on weekdays and 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday; the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury ferry runs from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. on weekdays and 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and is closed on Mondays.

State Senator Norm Needleman is seeking re-election in the November elections.