ROCKLAND – During September and October of this year, the Rockland Ferry Terminal parking lot will be undergoing some improvements that will result in 12 additional parking spots, greater safety, improved traffic flow, and reduced ice buildup thanks to upgraded drainage.

Though these improvements are necessary, the work will undoubtedly cause inconveniences for some island residents and others who routinely use this parking lot, according to a Department of Transportation news release.

The Maine State Ferry Service is working hard to find ways to minimize these inconveniences including:

-Free, temporary parking at the Hannaford parking lot.

-Free shuttle service between the Hannaford parking lot and the Rockland terminal. This free shuttle service is offered through the Waldo County Action Partners' (WCAP) DASH busses.

DASH normally offers hourly transportation to the terminal, but will extend their hours of operation and offer free trips to anyone boarding at the Hannaford or MSFS parking lots. Shuttle schedules will be posted at the ferry service and bus terminals.

-Free, roundtrip walk-on MSFS tickets from the islands on specific dates so residents can relocate their cars.

Like all construction projects, this work is subject to weather and other variables so this schedule may change.

Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16:

Partial parking lot closure begins. Free, round-trip, walk-on MSFS passenger tickets for those North Haven and Vinalhaven residents needing to move their vehicle. Customers can obtain these MSFS tickets at the island terminals. Vehicles not moved by 6:30 pm, Sunday, September 16 will be towed.

Saturday, September 15 – Tuesday, October 16:

Free DASH bus service between the Hannaford parking lot and the Rockland terminal. Regular DASH hours will be extended to provide early morning and “last boat” shuttle service during weekdays. On weekends, there will be a dedicated loop between Hannaford and the MSFS terminal.

Monday, September 17 – Monday, October 8 (Columbus Day):

Partial closure of parking lot with approximately 70 unavailable parking spaces.

Sunday, October 7 – Monday, October 8 at 6:30 pm:

Free round-trip, walk-on passenger tickets for those North Haven and Vinalhaven residents needing to move their vehicle from the parking lot. Customers can obtain these tickets at island terminals. Vehicles not moved by 6:30 p.m. Monday, October 8 will be towed.

Monday, October 8 at 6:30 pm – approximately Tuesday, October 16:

Full closure of parking lot.

October 17 - October 30:

Finish work that does not disrupt parking.

The Maine State Ferry Service understands this inconvenience and appreciates the public’s patience as these important improvements are made, according to the release.