AUGUSTA – The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IFW) released a comprehensive plan Wednesday to increase public access to Swan Island.
Swan Island’s ferry service was suspended in 2022 when aging infrastructure could no longer meet updated U.S. Coast Guard vessel inspection and staffing requirements. In response, Rep. Cluchey introduced legislation last year to form a working group tasked with developing a transportation plan to restore reliable ferry service to the island.
“Swan Island is a public resource that should be available to all Mainers,” said Cluchey. “This report provides a clear path toward that goal, and I appreciate the contributions of everyone involved in the working group. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee to make these recommendations a reality.”
The IFW report recommends a phased approach. First, the department would contract with smaller private vessels to provide service to Swan Island for the 2026 operating season, potentially beginning as early as May 2026. Simultaneously, IFW would upgrade the existing ferry to meet U.S. Coast Guard standards and secure funding for a permanent captain and crew.
The Legislature’s Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee has the authority to submit legislation this year based on the report’s findings.
Rep. Cluchey is serving her second term in the Maine House and represents House District 52, which includes the communities of Bowdoin, Bowdoinham, Richmond and Perkins Island Township. She serves on the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee and the Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee (Cluchey) | 305-965-2744