The William G. Ernst Ferry is set to be replaced by a new vessel in 2024. Photo: MODC
The new Tancook Island ferry has fallen behind schedule due to complications caused by the pandemic, permitting, and problems at the dock site.
Originally announced in 2020 the new ferry will replace the aging William G. Ernst ferry. At that time the Department of Public Works hoped to have the new ferry operational by Spring 2022.
Public Works Director of Fleet Management Dan Leopold says the pandemic was just one of many causes behind the delays.
“Staffing, resources, and shortages all over the place all led to the project moving at a slower pace than anticipated,” Leopold said. “Also on the permitting front, we ran into a few hiccups specifically with environmental permitting but we’re now working through those transparently with the other departments.”.
The last major cause of delay was eelgrass. Leopold says they discovered an eelgrass bed at the site of the proposed new dock in Blandford, which forced them to alter their plans for their backup location.
The project is now prepared to enter the tendering process, with plans to open bidding early this summer. Should that process go smoothly Leopold thinks work can begin as early as Spring 2023.
The Federal and Provincial governments have both invested $4.9 million towards the project though the total cost of the project won’t be fully known until tendering is complete.
The new ferry will offer improved service upon its completion. Crossing times are expected to drop from 50 minutes to 30 minutes and the number of daily crossings will increase from four to 11.
The new ferry will also be able to carry up to 18 cars, a service not offered by the current ferry.
