Nantucket Town Committee proposes ferry fee increase and public access maintenance measures

The Harbor Plan Update Committee meeting on June 2, 2025, spotlighted a significant proposal to increase the ferry embarkation fee from 50 cents to at least a dollar per passenger. This move aims to enhance funding for harbor-related projects and is seen as a crucial step in advancing the town's harbor plan. Committee members discussed the need to work with state legislators and other Cape and Island communities to potentially raise the allowable fee even further, with the possibility of a future increase to $2.

David, a committee member, confirmed that the town currently has the authority to raise the fee through a vote at town meeting, emphasizing the importance of this decision for future funding. The committee is hopeful that this proposal could be ready for discussion at the upcoming town meeting, although uncertainty remains about whether a special town meeting will occur.

In addition to the fee discussion, the committee addressed public access to harbor areas. A recommendation was made to ensure that public access points are maintained and that any obstructions are reported to the appropriate authorities. The committee debated the best channels for enforcement, with suggestions to involve the Department of Public Works (DPW) for timely responses to access issues.

The meeting also touched on the need for improved mapping of public access points, with calls for a more user-friendly digital format. The current maps are considered outdated, and there is a push to collaborate with GIS specialists to enhance accessibility.

As the committee moves forward, the proposed fee increase and the commitment to maintaining public access are expected to be pivotal in shaping Nantucket's harbor management strategy. The outcomes of these discussions will be closely watched as they could significantly impact both residents and visitors to the island.