Valley View Ferry Resumes Service Following Repairs

News Summary

After a three-month closure, the Valley View Ferry has resumed its service, connecting Fayette, Madison, and Jessamine counties. The ferry underwent extensive repairs and inspections mandated by the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure safety. Although it plays a crucial role in local transportation for approximately 13,000 passengers a month, another temporary closure for additional maintenance is already planned. The ferry, Kentucky’s oldest continuous business since 1785, remains a vital transit option for both residents and visitors.

Valley View Ferry Resumes Service After Repairs

Fayette County, KY – The Valley View Ferry, which connects Fayette, Madison, and Jessamine counties, has officially resumed service as of Thursday after a three-month closure for repairs and inspections mandated by the U.S. Coast Guard. The ferry had initially closed in late November, and while the original estimate for the repairs suggested a two-month downtime, the extent of necessary work lengthened the closure significantly.

Located at the end of Tates Creek Road on the Kentucky River, the Valley View Ferry plays a vital role in local transportation, serving approximately 13,000 passengers in the last month alone. This ferry is the only one in the area, operating 364 days a year without any backup service available.

Details of the Closure and Resumption

The Valley View Ferry underwent a thorough inspection process overseen by the U.S. Coast Guard, an essential requirement for ferry operations. The successful completion of this inspection allowed for the ferry’s resumption of operations, as confirmed by an announcement posted on social media.

Currently, the ferry operates under a certificate that is valid for five years, with annual inspections mandated to ensure safety and compliance. However, plans are already in place for another temporary shutdown. The Valley View Ferry is scheduled to close again on Saturday at 8 p.m. for one to two months for dry dock maintenance and the necessary recertification by the Coast Guard.

Future Maintenance and Impact on Commuters

During the upcoming dry dock period, the ferry will undergo routine maintenance and repairs. It is important to note that this closure may extend based on weather conditions or any unforeseen repair needs that might arise. In the meantime, alternative routes have been suggested for commuters, which include using US-27 South to Lancaster and I-75 for routes connecting Nicholasville and Richmond, as well as Lexington and Richmond.

Historical Significance

The Valley View Ferry is not only a current transportation solution but also holds historical importance, recognized as Kentucky’s oldest continuous business, dating back to 1785. It serves as a free service funded by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and local government entities, reinforcing its critical role in the community.

As service resumes following the extensive repairs, the Valley View Ferry continues to be a crucial element of local transit, connecting residents and visitors while preserving a long-standing tradition in the region.

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HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

• Kentucky.com: Valley View Ferry News
• WKYT: Valley View Ferry Shutdown
• Lex 18: Valley View Ferry Repairs
• Google Search: Valley View Ferry repairs
• Wikipedia: Ferry service