The Shaftesbury Ferry will be opening a little later than usual this year. The tug, which is about 50 years old, is in need of a new engine, gear box, and fuel tanks. As well, a fire suppression system is being installed to meet Transport Canada regulations. Jasmine Franklin with Alberta Transportation says the ferry should be ready to return to service by the end of May.
“Some people use it for travel crossings, some farmers use it to transport equipment as well, so the detour, of course you can still use the Peace River bridge, that’s an option still until this opens up.
The Shaftesbury Ferry operates on the Peace River about 60km south of that community along Hwy 740.
Image courtesy mightypeace.com