What may be the oldest continuously operating ferry in the U.S. is back on the Kentucky River after being shut down for three months for repairs, maintenance and high water. The Valley View Ferry offers a free shortcut between Fayette, Jessamine and Madison counties. Clayton Embly is the port captain for the ferry authority.
“The Coast Guard does a five-year hull inspection to ensure that everything is seaworthy. We knew we were going to have some repairs, and we basically replaced about 75 percent of the port side of the ferry barge hull.”
The Valley View Ferry has been running since 1785. It was purchased from a private owner in 1991 and the ferry authority is made up of citizens and officials from the three counties. Embly says it saves money and time for motorists.
“They're saving about 45 minutes each way. The transit time across the river is only about two and a half minutes.”
The ferry is open to motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and even horses, though riders must dismount before the ride across the river.
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