City Explores Ferry Subsidizing

During a brief meeting of the city’s Transportation Committee Wednesday, February 1, Mayor Margaret Doud was directed to contact the Eastern Upper Peninsula Transportation Authority to explore the availability of funding to subsidize ferry service in the winter.

With mild temperatures stalling the formation of an ice bridge between the Island and St. Ignace, committee members said transportation to the mainland is limited to air service, which can be unpredictable during stormy weather.

Arnold Transit Company ceased passenger boat service Monday, January 2, citing a lack of winter construction on the Island, coupled with high fuel costs. Historically, the company has operated through December, but has extended service during mild winters, if business warrants it.

Great Lakes Air of St. Ignace picks up the mail and passenger service in the winter, and since winter boat service would hurt the airline’s revenues, Mayor Doud said she will invite owner Paul Fullerton to attend the next meeting of the committee, which has yet to be scheduled.

Serving on the Transportation Committee are Aldermen Frank Bloswick, Dan Wightman, and Armin Porter.