Block Island Ferry updates schedule for the day
Downtown Block Island is closed to traffic, as firefighters continue to work on hot spots at the Harborside Inn, according to a Facebook post from the Block Island Times. No injuries have been reported, though the historic inn appears to be a total loss.
In an 11 a.m. update, the Block Island Ferry said the Pt. Judith High Speed Ferry will resume service at 1:20 p.m. and the Newport High Speed ferry departures are canceled.
The traditional ferries are running on a revised schedule for passengers with vehicle reservations. To see the schedule, go here.
For online ticket holders, same-day round-trip tickets will be automatically refunded, according to the update. Customers who have passenger tickets for today and want to cancel can email info@blockislandferry.com with the confirmation number to get a refund.
Harborside Inn says everyone has been evacuated, no injuries
An emergency advisory on the booking website for the Harborside said “everyone has been evacuated.”
“This is an ongoing situation and we are doing everything possible to make sure everyone is safe and dealing with this ongoing emergency as best we can,” the notice said.
The Harborside Inn building, a wooden, four-story Victorian with a large street-facing front porch, is listed on the National Register of Historic places. The hotel has 36 rooms, according to its website.
The building was built in 1890, according to assessors records.
No injuries were immediately reported.
Block Island under State of Emergency due to fire, visitors asked to stay away
A large fire at the Harborside Inn in New Shoreham on Block Island burned through the early morning hours Saturday and is limiting access to the island.
Block Island ferry service is canceled due to a state of emergency and electricity is out, ferry operator Interstate Navigation said on its website.
“The town of Block Island is in an active State of Emergency and is asking visitors not to travel to Block Island today,” the ferry website said. “There is limited water and no power in town.”
The large year-round traditional ferry is carrying emergency responders and customers with vehicle reservations, the ferry said. High-speed ferries from Point Judith and Newport have been canceled.
Firefighters from around southern Rhode Island traveled to the island to help crews there fight the fire through the night.
The Harborside Inn is located on Water Street in the center of Old Harbor and across the street from the ferry terminal.
How can passengers obtain the most up-to-date information on ferry schedules and any potential changes or updates
Holders, and walk-on passengers, the Block Island Ferry is offering a shuttle service from Galilee to Point Judith. The shuttle will depart at 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Passengers are advised to check the Block Island Ferry website or call their customer service line for further updates and information on ferry schedules.
It is unclear at this time when downtown Block Island will reopen to traffic. Authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety of the area and contain any remaining hot spots.
The cause of the fire at the Harborside Inn is still under investigation. We will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Oh no, this is so devastating. Sending prayers to all those affected by the fire. 😢🙏
AI: This is really heartbreaking. I hope everyone is safe and sound.