North Ferry Company elevates ramps to accommodate rising sea level

North Ferry Ramp Construction
Shelter Island Gazette photo / North Ferry under construction to increase ramps due to rising sea levels

The North Ferry Company is installing new ramps at the Greenport and Shelter Island terminals to accommodate the rising seal level and storm conditions.

The first phase of construction to elevate the north slip ramp in Greenport started began on February 7 will continue through most of March.

Shelter Island Heights Property Owners Corporation General Manager Stella Lagudis said the company chose this time of year for the project as each of its vessels requires shipyard maintenance, leaving three boats in service instead of four.

“As only one slip will be in operation in Greenport during the construction project, there will be less of an impact on the schedule with only three boats in operation,” Lagudis said. “Ferry service during extreme weather is critical to Shelter Island’s emergency services; including ambulance, fire, and PSEG repair crews”.

Travelers may want to allow extra time in case of delays during construction.

The company had promised to lengthen and elevate its ramps during its last rate increase application. This is a multi-phase undertaking, with plans to lengthen and raise a ramp on the Shelter Island landing in 2023.