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Travel between the east and west sides of Oswego will be a bit easier for Harborfest pedestrians during this year’s event. Two ferry services will provide a creative alternative for crossing the Oswego River.
“With the Route 104 bridge closure, there will be a disruption of the east/west movement of people this year,” said Steve Fulton of Harbor Festivals, Inc. “Under these circumstances, the addition of a second ferry service to the transportation roster was a great.”
The ferry service will be in operation on Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., as well as on Sunday, July 27 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Leaving approximately every half-hour, the boats will launch next to the former Coleman’s Restaurant on the west side of the river and from Patz Restaurant on the east side.
Capt. Tom Ryan, president of the State Council on Waterways provided the boat taxi service for Harborfest last year. The Erie Canal Boat is a former Coast Guard buoy tender that operates out of Little Falls, N.Y.
Capt. Jeff Pile from Seaway Navigation and Tours in Brewerton masters the Mystére to take passengers across the Oswego River. The Mystére will also participate in the 2nd Annual Harboritaville Lighted Boat Parade, along with a cruise, on Friday, July 25 and offer a Fireworks Cruise on Saturday, July 26.
“These boat taxis are another way to navigate the festival,” said Fulton. “Harborfest continues to offer bus shuttles and trolley services to make it more convenient for people to get here and easier for them to get around.”
Harborfest attractions on the east and west sides of Oswego welcome nearly 250,000 people annually. This year, opening ceremonies are scheduled for Thursday, July 24 at 7 p.m. in Breitbeck Park. The festival continues through Sunday, July 27; providing music, games, food and fun for the whole family.
With the Route 104 Bridge closed for repair this summer, be sure to plan accordingly so that you don’t miss the events you want to see. The Utica Street Bridge will be open as will the pedestrian walking bridge located just north of Utica Street. Visit the Harborfest website at www.oswegoharborfest.com for the latest information regarding transportation options and performance schedules. For details about the Harboritaville Boat Parade or Fireworks cruises, or to make a reservation, call Seaway Navigation and Tours at 934-4157 or visit www.seawaynavigationandtours.com.
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