Icy conditions have partially shut down normal services on the Sugar Island Ferry in the eastern Upper Peninsula. As crews wait for more ice breaking help from the U.S. Coast Guard, the ferry is only doing limited runs.
The ferry typically transports people between Sault Ste. Marie and the island on the St. Mary's River. It usually moves riders every 15 minutes.
The Great Lakes are experiencing increased ice cover. Federal data shows just over half of the Lakes are currently covered in ice.
Captain James Bendle of the U.S. Coast Guard told SooLeader.com that Coast Guard officials have been in contact with local transit authorities and are working to address mechanical issues faced by the two icebreakers tasked with working on the St. Mary's River. The next available icebreaker is expected Monday.
Greg Gorsuch is captain of the ferry. He said running a normal schedule under these conditions would put the boat at risk.
"That's really, really strenuous on the engines and the boat getting through the ice between the two docks,” he said. “Then there's taking the time to try and get into the island dock far enough to get our ramp down and ropes on and people safely off. This boat is not an icebreaker"
Gorsuch said he is not sure when the ferry will run its normal schedule again. He added that the Chippewa County Sheriff's Department has an airboat ready in case of any emergencies.
At the moment, the Ferry is only allowing limited runs for staff and residents in order to give "people a chance... to run to town real quick and come back,” Gorsuch said.
“Please consider traveling only if it is critical,” the Ferry’s Facebook page said Thursday. “If possible, assist neighbors by carpooling, picking up needed items, or coordinating trips to reduce the number of crossings required.”
