PRUDENCE ISLAND — Passengers who rely on the ferry between Prudence Island and Bristol are still facing higher fares, although a new settlement agreement would reduce the overall increase originally sought by the ferry operator.

Under the agreement, A&R Marine Corp., which operates Prudence & Bay Islands Transport, would be allowed to collect approximately $582,000 more in annual revenue, an increase of about 44% over current levels.

That's less than the $683,782 increase the company originally requested in March, but it still represents a substantial increase in the revenue collected from passengers and vehicle transportation.

Exactly how much individual passengers would pay depends on the type of ticket or vehicle fare. The settlement revises the company's original proposed rates and includes a 24-hour round-trip discount for Prudence Island-to-Prudence Island travel.

The agreement, reached Oct. 28 between A&R Marine and the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, must still be approved by the state Public Utilities Commission (PUC).

The commission will consider the settlement during a hearing Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 9:30 a.m., when residents will have another opportunity to voice their concerns.

Under the agreement, A&R Marine would be permitted to collect approximately $1.9 million in annual revenue, compared with the nearly $2 million it originally sought. The settlement reduces the company's original request by $102,043.

The ferry operator filed its rate application March 9, marking its first request for a rate increase in approximately 10 years.

The Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, which represents consumer interests in the proceeding, negotiated the settlement with A&R Marine in an effort to resolve all outstanding issues in the case.

For Prudence Island residents, who depend on the ferry for access to the mainland, the proposed increases could mean higher transportation costs for everyday travel. Visitors and property owners who bring vehicles to the island would also be affected.

Fares not yet set

The settlement does not automatically establish new fares. The PUC must review the agreement and decide whether to approve it.

Residents previously had an opportunity to comment on the proposed increases during a Sept. 2 public hearing on Prudence Island.

Another public comment session will be held before Wednesday's evidentiary hearing at the PUC's offices, 89 Jefferson Blvd., Warwick. Residents may attend in person or participate remotely.

Those wishing to comment through Zoom can join here. Written comments may also be emailed to commission clerk Stephanie De La Rosa at stephanie.delarosa@puc.ri.gov.

The complete settlement agreement, proposed fare schedules and supporting documents are available here.

Customers having difficulty accessing the documents may contact A&R Marine at admin@PI-Ferry.com.